Brain organoids and organoid intelligence from ethical, legal, and social points of view

Brain organoids and organoid intelligence from ethical, legal, and social points of view

05 January 2024 | Thomas Hartung, Itzy E. Morales Pantoja, Lena Smirnova
The article discusses the ethical, legal, and social implications of brain organoids and Organoid Intelligence (OI). Brain organoids, derived from human pluripotent stem cells, are 3D cellular models that recapitulate aspects of the developing human brain, offering unprecedented insights into neurodevelopment and neurological disorders. However, their advanced capabilities also raise complex ethical challenges, including the potential for consciousness, moral status, and the use of human-animal chimeras. OI, which combines organoids with Artificial Intelligence to establish basic forms of memory and learning, further complicates these issues. The article emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, including scientists, ethicists, policymakers, and the public, to address these challenges. Key topics include the scientific status and prospects of brain organoids, conceptualizations of consciousness, ethical and legal dimensions such as moral status, informed consent, and governance matters. The Baltimore Declaration calls for responsible development and ethical considerations in OI research, highlighting the importance of addressing potential consciousness and protecting donor interests. The article also explores the ethical implications of using brain organoids in research, including the moral status of organoids, the potential for consciousness, and the need for robust informed consent and equitable access.The article discusses the ethical, legal, and social implications of brain organoids and Organoid Intelligence (OI). Brain organoids, derived from human pluripotent stem cells, are 3D cellular models that recapitulate aspects of the developing human brain, offering unprecedented insights into neurodevelopment and neurological disorders. However, their advanced capabilities also raise complex ethical challenges, including the potential for consciousness, moral status, and the use of human-animal chimeras. OI, which combines organoids with Artificial Intelligence to establish basic forms of memory and learning, further complicates these issues. The article emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, including scientists, ethicists, policymakers, and the public, to address these challenges. Key topics include the scientific status and prospects of brain organoids, conceptualizations of consciousness, ethical and legal dimensions such as moral status, informed consent, and governance matters. The Baltimore Declaration calls for responsible development and ethical considerations in OI research, highlighting the importance of addressing potential consciousness and protecting donor interests. The article also explores the ethical implications of using brain organoids in research, including the moral status of organoids, the potential for consciousness, and the need for robust informed consent and equitable access.
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