Mitochondrial Replacement Techniques

Abstract

Abstract This chapter reviews the philosophical and ethical questions raised by mitochondrial replacement technologies (MRT). The authors argue that the therapeutic case for MRT is weak and that the involvement of a third party, in the form of the mitochondrial donor, establishes a genetic relationship between donor and child that calls into question the appropriateness of allowing donors of mitochondrial DNA to remain anonymous. MRT dedicates scarce resources to a relatively rare problem that might be addressed in other ways, involves unknown risks, and is likely to reinforce the ideal of genetic parenthood at the same time as it destabilizes it. However, in these, and in many other ways, MRT is very much akin to other assisted reproductive technologies. Insofar as, at least when used to create female embryos, MRT is a form of germline modification, legalization of MRT is also likely to have implications for social attitudes toward other technologies of germline modification.