Human Genes in Other Organisms – What do you think?

20 January, 2004

Toi te Taiao: the Bioethics Council begins its first nationwide dialogue in February this year, asking New Zealanders for their views on the use of human genes in other organisms.

The Council was set up, following the recommendation by the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification (GM), to promote and participate in public dialogue on the cultural, ethical and spiritual aspects of biotechnology.

Council Chairman Sir Paul Reeves said “We are asking people to consider some fairly fundamental questions, which go to the heart of what it means to be human - and to think about whether, when, how and for what purposes it is acceptable to transfer genes found in humans into organisms where they do not naturally occur.”

The dialogue process will include facilitated workshops and hui; providing background information and resources to assist dialogue; online discussion and a more traditional submission process.

Human genes are used in other organisms for various reasons including some health treatments; for example, human genes transferred to bacteria enable the production of human insulin for the management of diabetes. The technology is also used to increase scientific understanding and investigate potential commercial opportunities; for example, human genes have been transferred to cows to see if human proteins may be produced in their milk.

The main outcome of the dialogue will be advice to the Government regarding the cultural, ethical and spiritual issues this technology raises. The Bioethics Council reports to the Government through the Minister for the Environment, but has a high degree of independence, including setting its own work programme and priorities.

Sir Paul says “It’s important that New Zealanders think about and are able to constructively discuss and debate the ethical issues that arise from the development and use of biotechnologies – many have the ability to bring huge benefits, but may also pose significant risks and frequently challenge the way in which we think about our humanity and values. These are ‘big issues’ and its crucial that we discuss them as a nation. Toi te Taiao: the Bioethics Council exists to help that happen,”

For further information visit the website:

www.bioethics.org.nz

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