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 contexts. 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.