Authors: Prainsack, B.; Cherkas, L.F.; Spector, T.D.

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 22, Number 8, 21 August 2007 , pp. 2302-2308(7)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

BACKGROUND

Surveys have shown opposition to human reproductive cloning (HRC) in many countries. Views of identical (monozygotic, MZ) twins are of particular interest, as they naturally share 100 of their genes. We investigated attitudes of British twins towards HRC in the context of assisted reproduction technologies (ART) and gene selection.

METHODS

About 4651 identical and non-identical (dizygotic, DZ) twins expressed their degree of agreement or disagreement to nine statements relating to ART, gene selection and HRC in a self-completion questionnaire.

RESULTS

Most subjects (70 and 78 respectively) did not regard the use of medical technologies to treat infertility as interfering with either nature or God's will, despite believing that infertility is not a disease (54). Attitudes to gene selection and HRC were context dependent, with more favourable views towards preventing serious diseases than towards enhancing traits. About 44 supported a permanent ban of HRC. MZ twins were significantly more likely to agree that HRC should be allowed for medical purposes, such as saving a sibling's life, than were DZ twins. Increasing religiosity generally correlated with more negative attitudes.

CONCLUSIONS

Many attitudes are context dependent. More positive views of MZ twins towards HRC could be linked to their experience with being genetically identical.

Keywords: survey; attitudes; twins; assisted reproduction; human reproductive cloning

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/humrep/dem113

Publication date: 2007-08-21

More about this publication?

• Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

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