Ethics of Buying DNA

Julian J Koplin; Jack Skeggs; Christopher Gyngell

doi:10.1007/s11673-022-10192-w

Ethics of Buying DNA

J Bioeth Inq. 2022 Sep;19(3):395-406. doi: 10.1007/s11673-022-10192-w. Epub 2022 Jul 19.

Authors

Julian J Koplin^{1

2}, Jack Skeggs³, Christopher Gyngell^{4

5}

Affiliations

¹ Melbourne Law School, University of Melbourne, 185 Pelham St, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia. julian.koplin@monash.edu.
² Biomedical Ethics Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia. julian.koplin@monash.edu.
³ Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
⁴ Biomedical Ethics Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
⁵ Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.

Abstract

DNA databases have significant commercial value. Direct-to-consumer genetic testing companies have built databanks using samples and information voluntarily provided by customers. As the price of genetic analysis falls, there is growing interest in building such databases by paying individuals for their DNA and personal data. This paper maps the ethical issues associated with private companies paying for DNA. We outline the benefits of building better genomic databases and describe possible concerns about crowding out, undue inducement, exploitation, and commodification. While certain objections deserve more empirical and philosophical investigation, we argue that none currently provide decisive reasons against using financial incentives to secure DNA samples.

Keywords: Commodification; DNA databases; Direct-to-consumer genetic testing; Exploitation; Genomics.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Commodification*
DNA
Genetic Testing*
Humans

Substances

DNA