Human DNA Sequence Advances Biotech
Research; Creates New Bioethics Challenges

SEATTLE, WA. (June 28, 2000) - Ruth M. Scott, President of the Washington Biotechnology & Biomedical Association (WBBA) issued the following statement on completion of a rough draft of the full DNA sequence of the human genome:

"Mapping the human genome is a major step in the continuing exploration of how our bodies work, how we evolved and how we relate to other organisms. If this were a marathon, however, we would just be lacing up our shoes. For now the really hard work begins: discovering the function of genes and how they relate to each other.

"The biotechnology industry has been exploring the human genome for 25 years and using genetic information to develop new diagnostics, drugs and vaccines for diseases. Nearly 100 biotech medicines already are on the market, and another 350 are in late-stage clinical trials. Having a human genome map, however, will speed development of more advanced medicines by beginning to eliminate much of the guesswork from drug research and development. It’s like handing Columbus a 21st-century map of the New World before he set sail.

"In addition, as we learn more about our genome and ourselves, we will confront new bioethical issues involving privacy, discrimination and intellectual property. How we handle these issues will affect public acceptance of our efforts to use genetic information to improve human and animal health.

"In 1997, the industry adopted a Statement of Principles for the ethical practice of biotechnology in all its applications. The rapid advance of biotechnology now demands more. We have initiated a project encouraging all companies to incorporate bioethics principles and analyses into their everyday business practices.

"For example, several companies already have formed bioethical advisory boards to review their research projects. Some train their research staffs in bioethical principles, such as informed patient consent in clinical trials. Others either have consultants on permanent retainer to conduct classes in bioethics issues or bring in college professors to give seminars to employees.

"Public acceptance of our progress depends on maintaining the trust and goodwill our industry has fostered ever since recombinant DNA technology was invented in the 1970s. That milestone triggered a voluntary moratorium on research until the implications of the new technology were assessed and guidelines for research were established.

"Completion of the human genome sequence is cause for celebration. It is also an opportunity for our industry to reaffirm its commitment to realizing our growth potential, emphasizing our ethical sensibility and working for the benefit of all people throughout the world."

WBBA represents more than 260 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, medical device firms and associate member companies throughout the state of Washington.

For additional information, please contact:

Washington Biotechnology & Biomedical Association
Pam Love, Director of Communications & Events
1100 Olive Way, Suite 300
Seattle, WA 98101-1839
Phone: 206.624.1967
Fax: 206.628.0899
E-mail: washbio@washbio.org