Contribution of Reproductive and Gene Technologies on Individuals and Society

Reproductive technologies, such as IVF (In Vitro Fertilization), can benefit individuals who are having difficulty conceiving naturally. It allows fertilisation to occur outside of the body, then implanting the fertilised egg back into the uterus.
Genetic testing allows early detection and risk assessment of genetically inherited diseases such as Huntington’s disease, BRCA1/BRCA2 breast and ovarian cancers, and cystic fibrosis.
Prenatal screening technologies help identify potential genetic disorders or abnormalities in the foetus, offering parents the chance to make informed decisions about a pregnancy.
The development of gene therapy offers hope for treating or even curing certain genetic disorders by directly manipulating a person’s genes.
Through PGD (Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis) during IVF, embryos can be tested for specific genetic conditions before being implanted. This technology can prevent certain genetic disorders from being passed on to future generations.
Society benefits from the reduced incidence of certain severe genetic disorders, potentially leading to lower healthcare costs in the long run.
The ability to select traits through genetic technologies may raise ethical concerns around ‘designer babies’. It prompts important societal discussions about the ethics and fair access to these technologies.
Genetic technologies have opened up new areas of research and development, contributing to advancements in biology, medicine, and potentially offering new treatments for a range of conditions.
Gene technologies have also fueled debates around genetic privacy and the potential misuse of genetic information, influencing changes in law and policy.
Social perspectives on gene technologies can vary, shaped by factors like religion, culture and personal ethics. Public understanding and acceptance of these technologies are essential for their successful integration.
These advancements have also opened up new career opportunities in fields such as genetic counselling, genomic medicine, and bioethics.
Gene technologies have also played a pivotal role in agricultural developments, from genetically modified (GM) crops that resist pests, to farm animals modified to enhance productivity. This can impact food security and environmental sustainability.