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Several objections against the morality of researching or employing mitochondrial replacement techniques have been advanced recently. In this paper, I examine three of these objections and show that they are found wanting. First I examine whether mitochondrial replacement techniques, research and clinical practice, should not be carried out because of possible harms to egg donors. Next I assess whether mitochondrial replacement techniques should be banned because they could affect the study of genealogical ancestry. Finally, I examine the claim that mitochondrial replacement techniques are not transferring mitochondrial DNA but nuclear DNA, and that this should be prohibited on ethical grounds.

Original publication

DOI

10.1007/s40592-016-0059-x

Type

Journal article

Journal

Monash Bioeth Rev

Publication Date

03/2016

Volume

34

Pages

37 - 51

Keywords

Maternal spindle transfer, Mitochondrial donation, Mitochondrial replacement techniques, Pronuclear transfer, Three parent IVF, Three parent babies, Tri-parenthood, Eugenics, Female, Genealogy and Heraldry, Humans, Male, Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy, Reproductive Techniques, Assisted, Tissue Donors