Ethical considerations and oversight of the use of human gametes and in vitro embryos for scientific research
10.3760/cma.j.cn101441-20241212-00468
- VernacularTitle:人类配子与体外胚胎用于科研的伦理考量及监督
- Author:
Yuanhua HUANG
1
Author Information
1. 海南医科大学第一附属医院生殖医学科 海南医科大学生殖健康及相关疾病研究与转化教育部重点实验室，海口 570102
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Gamete;
Personhood;
Ethics;
Embryo in vitro
- From:
Chinese Journal of Reproduction and Contraception
2025;45(4):337-340
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Human embryo is regarded as the middle body between subject and object, which is the main cognition of the ethical status of embryo. It is considered that personhood of an embryo is gradually acquired in the process of its development. From an ethical point of view, when the primitive streak of an embryo is generated at 2 weeks after fertilization, the "human" property is considered to be generated, and this time limit should be followed in scientific research. It is unacceptable that in vitro research uses embryos which have "human" property. Research for the purpose of obtaining offspring must be in accordance with the ethical guidelines of assisted reproductive technology. Reproductive gene editing and reproductive cloning are forbidden. Construction of chimeric embryos between individuals and species violates the principle of respect for human beings. Embryos should not be cultured in vitro for more than 2 weeks of embryo age. Ethical supervision is an important way to ensure the observance of ethical norms in embryology research, including self-supervision, supervision by public opinions, ethical review and supervision of ethics committee, regulation and system supervision This article reviews the ethical considerations and supervision of the use of human gametes and in vitro embryos for scientific research.
