Epigenetics: The rest of the story

Epigenetics: The rest of the story

22jul(jul 22)12:00 am24(jul 24)12:00 amEpigenetics: The rest of the story

Event Details

Presented By:

  Judith Lee Kissell, PhD

   Creighton University

Abstract:

 The study of epigenetics suggests that structural alterations to the genome caused by environmental factors (broadly) can affect generations of populations in various ways.  This paper will briefly describe the influence of epigenetic programming on cell development and expression. It will explore examples of the research being done to substantiate epigenetic theory and finally, suggest that insofar as these alterations result from human intervention, at least four ethical implications result:

(1) how for protection of populations we might conceptualize regulation of epigenetics as an emerging technology;

(2) how the environmental/ecological effects of epigenetic changes might have a disproportionate effect on the poor and powerless;

(3) how the concept radically challenges the notion of the autonomous self as one whose identity and boundaries are, for purposes of decision-making, virtually sacred;

(4) how the risks of epigenetic alterations suggest that we are in fact Akeepers@ of the genomes of our progeny, a twist on our responsibilities to future generations.

 

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Time

22 (Thursday) 12:00 am - 24 (Saturday) 12:00 am(GMT+00:00)

Location

Stanley Hotel

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