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Brain Organoid Research in a Post-Dobbs World
Christine N Coughlin1, Nancy M P King2, Emily McEwan3
1Professor of law at Wake Forest University School of Law and a core faculty member in the Wake Forest Center for Bioethics, Health & Society.
Ethics & Human Research
|March 14, 2025
Summary
Brain organoid research offers insights into brain disorders but faces potential restrictions from abortion laws. Policy-making must consider unintended consequences for vital scientific advancements.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biotechnology
- Bioethics
Background:
- Brain organoids show promise for understanding brain functions and diseases.
- This research garners public and professional support when conducted ethically.
- Novel ethical considerations arise alongside scientific advancements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential impact of current legislative and judicial restrictions on abortion and fetal personhood on brain organoid research.
- To highlight the unintended consequences of policy-making on biomedical research.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of current legal and ethical frameworks surrounding abortion and fetal personhood.
- Evaluation of the potential reach of these policies on bioengineered research tools, including brain organoids.
Main Results:
- Legislative and judicial restrictions may inadvertently impede the development and use of brain organoids.
- Pronouncements on fetal personhood could broadly restrict biomedical research.
Conclusions:
- Brain organoid research serves as a cautionary example of performative policy-making.
- Thoughtful policy development is crucial to avoid stifling scientific innovation and its benefits.
