Meet the Mighty Gene Machine

Can someone's genetic profile be an accurate predictor of disease? What about predicting behaviour? Scientists have identified genes that cause increased risk of breast cancer and alcoholism for example. Also, the absence of a gene for a brain enzyme has been linked to aggressive and anti-social behaviour. How much can genetic predictions tell us when these conditions are also affected by environmental factors?

And what about personal privacy? Who should have access to your genetic profile? Doctors could use the information to give you advice or medication to reduce the risk of diseases to which you are genetically prone. On the other hand, insurance companies might want this same information to grant or deny health insurance.

And what of employers? They may wish to know if a potential employee is at-risk for serious illnesses or if they have personality traits that make them unsuitable colleagues. If this information is out there, can it remain confidential?

Meet the Mighty Gene Machine starts with a drama performance that highlights some of these questions and is followed by a chance to explore your views with invited experts. Find out how much our genes can really tell us and explore how this technology should be used.

This event will be webcast live. On-line audiences are invited to get involved by emailing their views throughout the event to talk@danacentre.org.uk. Emails will be shared with the live audience in the Dana Centre.

Arrive early to enjoy a wide variety of delicious food and drink in our air-conditioned d.cafe, or make use of our free Internet access in the d.lounge.