There are aspects of genetic research that seem far removed from everyday life and are hardly ever mentioned in the popular media. Some, on the other hand, receive greater public exposure. Take, for example, the extensive reporting by the British press earlier this year on the first couples who wanted to be considered for preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). In both cases, couples sought to have a child whose tissue-type would match that of an already existing child who suffered from a life-threatening disease, and who could be saved by a transplant. On page 941, Peter Braude and colleagues provide a detailed discussion of PGD, with a step-by-step description of the technique and the situations in which it is suitable. As was highlighted by the press coverage, deciding who should qualify for PGD is a complex ethical issue — should it be limited to prevent the transmission of severe genetic disorders, or extended to cases in which a tissue match is required or to select for children of the desired sex, for so-called family balancing? The situation is further complicated by the existence of country-specific regulations. For example, one British couple has recently undergone IVF treatment following PGD in a US centre because their specific request was disallowed in the UK by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority on ethical grounds.

This issue also includes an article that deals with another topic that has enjoyed much public exposure — the influence of genetic research on the work of contemporary visual artists. By using specific examples, Dorothy Nelkin and Suzanne Anker argue that it is the social and ethical issues associated with genetics, such as the commercialization and commodification of genetic material, that has most inspired artists.

Finally, we would also like to take this opportunity to wish our readers a happy and peaceful holiday season and New Year.