The procurement of Henrietta Lack's cells brings up many ethical issues surrounding both informed consent and the ownership of genetic and biologic materials.
In what way was informed consent breached in this case?
Explain Dr. George Gey's role in the creation of the HeLa cell line. Did he benefit? If so, explain how.
Which ethical theory best describes his actions?
Many human genes have been patented and the resulting 2013 supreme court ruling left some gray areas in this regard. What are your thoughts about research and patents when it comes to biologic materials?
Should Henrietta Lacks' family receive money for the HeLa cells?
Should companies profit in general from genes or other biologic materials?
If not, do you think it will impact companies' willingness to do biomedical research? If yes, how could that impact healthcare?
