Human Gene Therapy: Ethics and Public Policy

Abstract

The first three human gene transfer/therapy clinical protocols are now underway after having been subjected to an extensive review process by the Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee (RAC) and its Human Gene Therapy Subcommittee. The “Points to Consider” document developed by the RAC established the framework for evaluating genetic intervention protocols. This review process is taking place in a broader social context. Public attitude surveys in this country have indicated a general lack of knowledge in the area of genetic engineering but an acceptance of somatic-cell gene therapy as treatment for disease. Internationally, numerous policy statements on human genetic intervention have been published, all of which support the moral legitimacy of somatic-cell gene therapy for the cure of disease. The debate over the ethical issues related to somatic-cell gene therapy has evolved over a ten-year-period. The time has now come to begin a formal public process for the ethical assessment of germ-line genetic intervention.

Overview summary

An extensive discussion of the ethical issues relating to somatic-cell gene therapy has been taking place for a number of years. A consensus now appears to exist that somatic-cell gene therapy for the treatment of serious disease is morally correct. Walters, from his position as a leading ethicist who has followed the field of gene therapy throughout its history, now proposes that a formal public discussion should begin on germ-line gene therapy.