Ethical and social aspects of experimental gene manipulation

New genetic techniques for the isolation and rejoining of segments of DNA now permit construction of biologically active recombinant DNA molecules. Such recombinant DNA molecules can be multiplied many times by inserting them into the bacterium Escherichia coli. Thus, we now possess a powerful technology for cloning segments of DNA from any source and for adding new genetic capabilities to bacteria. Application of this technology promises to facilitate the solution of a variety of theoretical and practical biological questions. However, use of this technology will also result in the creation of novel organisms whose biological properties may not be completely predictable in advance. Some of these organisms may be hazardous to man or to the environment. This paper discusses some ethical and social control of the new genetic technologies.