Gene theft

Animation of DNA, a part of our identity.

In bioethics and law, gene theft or DNA theft is the act of acquiring the genetic material of another individual, usually from public places, without his or her permission. The DNA may be harvested from a wide variety of common objects such as discarded cigarettes, used condoms, coffee cups, and hairbrushes. In addition, a variety of people can be interested on collecting someone's genetic material. This includes the police, political parties, historians, professional sports teams, personal enemies, etc.[1] DNA contains adequate amount of information about someone and it can be used for many purposes such as establishing paternity, proving genealogical connections or even unmasking private medical conditions.[2]

  1. ^ Joh, Elizabeth (2011). "DNA Theft: Recognizing the Crime of Nonconsensual Genetic Collection and Testing" (PDF). Boston University Law. 91: 665.
  2. ^ Harmon, Amy. Stalking Strangers’ DNA to Fill in the Family Tree. The New York Times April 2, 2007

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