| Title: | Collecting genetic information and human genetic engineering in the space realm : a legal and ethical perspective |
| Authors: | Giuliana Rotola, Author |
| Material Type: | ISU Individual Project |
| Publisher: | Illkirch-Graffenstaden (France) : International Space University, 2020 |
| Size: | 1 online resource (43 p.) / col. ill. |
| Bibliography note: | Includes bibliographical references |
| Languages: | English |
| Description: |
Our knowledge of the effects of the space environment on the human body is still very limited to date. Considerable progress has been made with the NASA study started in 2015 on two twin astronauts, Scott and Mark Kelly. Scott was on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) for 340 days, while Mark remained on Earth. The study highlighted DNA level changes on Scott due to the microgravitational environment. This sort of research allows for significant advances in medical research relating to the adaptation of the human body in space. Still, they risk being questioned due to restrictive policies on the use of personal data, especially genetic data.
This report offers a comparative analysis of the legal framework set up to protect personal data and prevent genetic discrimination. Having highlighted points of convergence and gaps at the international, regional, and national levels, it then proposes the adoption by space agencies of a combined system for collecting astronaut data consisting of an external database and a blockchain that controls its access. A review of possible future ways of using human genetic data is then proposed. Finally, a set of recommendations is suggested to serve as guidelines in the creation of future policies of space agencies. |
| ISU program : | Master of Space Studies |
| Permalink: | https://isulibrary.isunet.edu/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=11612 |
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 Rotola, Giuliana_IP (809 KB) Adobe Acrobat PDF |
