Jewish Ethical Reflections on the Promises and Challenges of Mitochondria Replacement Therapy

Abstract

Abstract Orthodox Judaism is an ever-evolving religion, responding to changes in science, technology, medicine, etc. The evolution of thought within this religious tradition can be clearly examined in halakhic responses to assisted reproductive technology and the adoption of these technologies and procedures by the Orthodox Jewish community. A relatively new reproductive technology of great interest to the Orthodox community is mitochondrial replacement therapies (MRT). This article examines past and current decisions regarding reproductive technologies that are used when examining a new assisted reproductive technology. Additionally, close examination of these sources will elucidate whether MRT results in the conception and delivery of children who are “Jewish by birth” or how a child born via MRT can be considered Jewish, post-parturition.