Legal and Ethical Implications of Epigenetics

Abstract

Epigenetics raises important legal and ethical issues that have been largely unexplored. Initially, this chapter considers whether legal and ethical issues raised by epigenetics differ from those raised by genetics, about which there already has been much discussion and legislation. Among the key differences are the higher rates of epigenetic marks than genetic mutations from similar environmental exposures and the greater potential for multigenerational harms caused by epigenetics. This chapter discusses the following legal issues: (1) regulation of research, (2) regulation of exposures, (3) discrimination, (4) personal injury liti-gation, and (5) medical malpractice. The ethical issues discussed are (1) environ-mental and occupational justice, (2) personal responsibility, (3) privacy and confidentiality, (4) access to healthcare, (5) equality, and (6) intergenerational equity. In general, this chapter discusses how epigenetics raises fundamental issues in a new context, thereby challenging existing legal and ethical doctrines.