Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications of Human Genomics Research: Past, Present and Future

For more than two decades, the National Human Genome Research Institute has (NHGRI) has been committed to driving the responsible use of genomics in society in order to advance knowledge and ensure that genomics benefits the health of all populations. NHGRI considers the Ethical, Legal and Social Implications (ELSI) of genomics research, including the following key issues: genetic discrimination, health disparities, human subjects research, informed consent, intellectual property, privacy and confidentiality and regulation and coverage of genetic tests

Dr. Brody is the director of the NHGRI Division of Genomics and Society, which is responsible for exploring societal issues related to genomics, incorporating and extending the institute’s ELSI research program, and integrating NHGRI-wide activities in these areas. The Division’s current main activity is the extramural ELSI Research Program, which fosters basic and applied research on ELSI issues raised by genomics through research funding, training grants, and contracts. Dr Brody is a senior investigator in the social and behavioral research branch at NHGRI and head of the Genetics and Environment Section.  His research interests include neural tube defects, vitamin B12 metabolism, personalized genetic information, and BRCA-related cancers.