Welcome to GeneWatch UK

GeneWatch UK is a not-for-profit group that monitors developments in genetic technologies from a public interest, human rights, environmental protection and animal welfare perspective. GeneWatch believes people should have a voice in whether or how these technologies are used and campaigns for safeguards for people, animals and the environment. We work on all aspects of genetic technologies - from GM crops and foods to genetic testing of humans.

Topics

  • GM insects

    The Public Library of Science has published a collection of articles about the regulation of genetically modified insects, including an article by scientists at the Max Planck Institute that criticises the risk assessments for Oxitec's GM insect trials. Read the scientists' press release and reports in Nature and Der Spiegel.

  • A DNA database in the NHS?

    Responding to a new report by the Human Genomics Strategy Group (HGSG), GeneWatch has warned that overenthusiasm about genomics could waste vast sums of public money. The report includes proposals to build a DNA database of the whole population, linked to electronic medical records in the NHS. Read the article in the Telegraph.

  • Genes and Marketing

    The Google-funded online gene testing company 23andMe has made a patent application based on its genome wide association study (GWAS) of Parkinson's Disease. Read the details on the Gene Values blog by Dr Stuart Hogarth.

  • GM Crops and Food

    Monsanto has announced it will not market GM maize seeds in France this year. This follows German multinational BASF's announcement that it is pulling out of growing GM crops in Europe.

  • The UK Police National DNA Database

    The Protection of Freedoms Bill has reached Report Stage in the House of Lords. You can read the debate here.

  • International DNA databases

    Read the magazine on DNA databases and human rights, published by the Council for Responsible Genetics. GeneWatch UK, the Council for Responsible Genetics and Privacy International are working together on the Forensics Genetics Policy Initiative to develop international standards in this area.

  • Research Agendas and Patenting

    To find out how vested interests lead to taxpayers' money being wasted on poor research priorities, read GeneWatch UK's report about science funding and the biotech economy.

  • GM fish

    The Guardian has revealed that GM salmon company AquaBounty was rescued from bankruptcy by a half million dollar US government grant. The company's main investor is the business tycoon and former economics minister of Georgia, Kakha Bendukidze.

  • GM Contamination Register

    An on-line database of incidents of GM contamination, illegal releases and adverse agricultural side-effects run by GeneWatch UK and Greenpeace.

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