Ethical and Legal Landscape of Blockchain in Genetic Research

This article considers the application of blockchain technology in genetic research. The authors also pay attention to the harmonization of interests while addressing ethical and legal issues. Rapid progress in medicine and biotechnology has attracted considerable public interest to genetic information, which thus increased the amount of research in the field of genetics. Consequently, the scientific community faces new challenges pertaining to safe storage and confidentiality of vast genetic datasets. Given the unique properties of blockchain technology, it contributes to the safety, integrity and confidentiality of genetic information. The decentralized and immutable structure of blockchain simplifies safekeeping and administration of confidential genetic data. The article also explores theoretical compatibility between the structure of DNA and blockchain, hypothesizing the potential for developing artificial life forms based on blockchain technology.The main objective of the research is to define the role of blockchain in genetics and its potential influence on the development of science and resolution of crucial legal issues. The authors conclude that blockchain technology is nowadays a reliable repository of genetic data. Moreover, this technology can form the foundation for the creation of artificial life in the short term. Although artificially created organisms may have an advantage over living organisms, they cannot exist without human control and will generate new ethical and legal issues that will require careful resolution.