The genes of some indigenous peoples are of special interest to researchers because their relative homogeneity facilitates the search for correlations between specific genes and phenotypic traits. During the 1990s the Human Genome Diversity Project undertook to collect DNA samples from hundreds of indigenous groups for this purpose. The project has since disbanded, but indigenous peoples are still the subjects of genetic research on topics including human evolution and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs, or "disease genes").
Many indigenous people object to this work for a variety of practical and ethical reasons. They are concerned about the patenting and commercialization of the information derived from these samples, the lack of fully informed consent by many from whom samples were taken, the potential for genetic discrimination based on the identification of group differences, and the disproportionate allocation of public funds to genetic research rather than to direct health care and prevention programs.
These experiences have contributed to many indigenous people's skepticism about the practices and promises of genetic science. Indigenous people and their organizations are taking an active part in the emerging opposition to human cloning and genetic redesign.
Off-Site Links
Indigenous Peoples Council on Biocolonialism
http://www.ipcb.org/
The
North American Indigenous Peoples Summit on Biological Diversity and
Biological Ethics
http://www.ipcb.org/resolutions/
More Information
Analysis:
Examine the social, cultural, and economic landscape
Policies:
Read about existing and potential regulations
Technologies:
Learn the basic science and consider arguments for and against
Date modified: