Genetic technologies and the interplay between public desire, commercial interests, and regulatory powers

Abstract

Applications with genetic technologies are now present in numerous health science con-texts. This review article summarizes the implementation of these applications from a critical social perspective, examining how public uptake creates complex social issues and regulatory challenges. Focused primarily on English-speaking North America (Canada and the United States), this review summarizes some recent public perception research on YouTube and Reddit on the topics of DNA ancestry testing and non-invasive prenatal testing/screening. More broadly, it highlights how public use, social media, commercial marketing discourse, and regulatory bodies convene around genetic technologies and the tensions and challenges that ensue.