The Orphan Embryos: A Case Study in Bioethics
From The Embassy of Good Science
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The Orphan Embryos: A Case Study in Bioethics
What is this about?
In this fictional case, a couple’s remaining fertilised embryos are stored - on their request - for possible future implantation. After the couple’s tragic death following an accident, the IVF clinic storing the embryos is approached by a Parkinson’s disease research group asking for unused surplus frozen embryos. What should the IVF clinic do?
Why is this important?
This is a case for discussion on stem cell research ethics, presented with a number of stimulating questions, by the Office of Biotechnology at Iowa State University. It reinforces the notion that where no clear legislation on stem cell research is in force, decisions as to whose stakes to protect and how, may become ethical dilemma disputes and legal battles.
For whom is this important?
Decision makersEthics committee membersHuman rights defendersLaboratory researchersResearch institutionsmedical researchers
