Ethik des Sammelns
The Dark Side of DNA: Exposing the Ethical Lapses That Threaten Human Genetics
DNA databases are essential for human genetic research and its biomedical applications. Because of the sensitivity of genetic data, it is crucial to limit its misuse. Documented instances of misuse include forensic research harmful to vulnerable ethnic groups, unethical practices by law enforcement and businesses, racist pseudoscience, and eugenics. In the area of forensic genetics, a lot of unethical research has appeared in academic journals from all major publishers. Numerous retractions have been obtained in the past few years, but this issue has shown major dysfunctions in the research integrity process of academic publishers. While strong corrective action is needed, a delicate balance needs to be achieved to prevent unethical research and limit the misuse of research results without blocking ethical research.
Vortragender: Yves Moreau, University of Leuven, Belguium
Unborn digital. Challenges in data publications on collections of human embryos and fetuses
Historical collections of human embryos and fetuses provide valuable insights into early human development, anatomy, and the emergence and treatment of malformations. These physical collections are used in research, teaching, and sometimes even published as digital assets. However, since the specimens were obtained from pregnant women – a highly vulnerable group throughout the history of modern medicine – significant ethical concerns are raised. In this presentation, I will explore issues related to data ethics using the example of the so-called Blechschmidt Collection, established at the Anatomical Institute at Göttingen University between 1942 and 1972. My discussion will draw on findings from a research project I conducted on the provenance of these specimens.
Vortragender: Michael Markert, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg