Op-Ed Piece: Mitochondrial Manipulation Technologies

This post shall provide commentary on an article written by Marcy Darnovsky titled Genetically Modified Babies.

Through the citation of scientific studies such as the researchers at Oregon Health and Science University, Darnovsky presents ample research and background which establishes credibility.

I agree with Darnovsky's concerns that the science is still too dangerous and primitive. I find clinical trials of these procedures carried out on human beings to be premature. The science is still new, and has not been studied enough to guarantee its safety; therefore, I feel that the British regulators who are eager to move to clinical trials would be wrong to do so.

Darnovsky also mentions that ethical and social policy issues are issues that must be addressed, and I agree with her in the sense that people who want to use this technology should take it in to account.

However, I don't agree with her criticism of he F.D.A. advisory panel for considering only the scientific aspects of mitochondrial manipulation technologies. I don't feel it is the role of the F.D.A. or any other organization or single person to decide the moral code for millions of people. As long as the technology is not hurting anyone, I think it is up to the individual to decide whether or not they want this procedure based on their morality and other personal factors.

I also take issue with Darnovsky's assertion that,"Genetic modifications of sperm, eggs, and early embryos should be strictly off limits."

I believe that mitochondrial manipulation and other technologies designed to prevent heritable illness needs to be studied much more to ensure that it is completely safe, and after mastery of this technology has been achieved, then it can be implemented.

I feel that mitochondrial manipulation can be used for a noble cause: allowing women to have biological children without the risk of fatal ailments that are passed from mother to child. I feel that Darnovsky approaches the subject coldly, and detaches herself from the emotional motives behind this technological innovation. She does not take into enough consideration the perspective of the mothers who face these issues. I think parents should be allowed to take advantage of the opportunity to prevent their child from acquiring devastating genetic predispositions.