Ms Ezra Kneebone1, Dr Liz Sutton1
1Monash Bioethics Centre, Monash University
Mitochondrial donation (MD) is a novel reproductive technology that works by creating embryos using an enucleated donor oocyte, leaving healthy mitochondria behind alongside the addition of the nuclear genetic material from the prospective parents. In Australia, legislative amendment to the Prohibition of Human Cloning for Reproduction Act 2002 recently passed, to lawfully allow MD for the purpose of preventing the transmission of mitochondrial disease. The next step in Australia following this legislative change is the implementation of a clinical trial to assess safety, efficacy and feasibility of the broader clinical implementation of MD.
As part of a project funded by the MRFF and led by the Monash Bioethics Centre on the Ethical, Social and Legal Aspects of Genomics to Prevent Mitochondrial Disease, we surveyed the Australian public (n=1000) and medical and scientific community (n=250). This was done to assess levels of understanding and attitudes towards MD. In this paper, we present the findings of these surveys.
The findings illustrate public and professional attitudes towards the implementation of MD, with a particular focus on equitable access for the prospective parents, the wellbeing of the child born as a result of such technology, and information and support provisions to those providing MD. The findings should inform further targeted research on public, community and expert attitudes toward aspects of MD and if deemed appropriate, the implementation of MD into clinical practice.
Biography:
Ezra Kneebone obtained her BSc and GradDipRepSc from Monash University. She is currently a PhD candidate investigating surrogacy in Australia and the needs of surrogates and intended parents. Her research interests include the legal, social, and ethical implications of assisted reproductive technologies.
Dr Liz Sutton is a medical anthropologist in the areas of patient agency – particularly in relation to reproduction and birth, advance care planning and health service design and change. She has won operational grants worth over $20million and works as a research fellow at the Monash Bioethics Centre.