Biological Parenthood in Relation to Future Artificial Reproductive Technologies

Future artificial reproductive technologies, including mitochondrial replacement therapy, in vitro gametogenesis, and ectogenesis raise important legal and ethical questions, such as: Who should be considered the parents of children born from these technologies? The concept of biological parenthood is commonly used as a basis for answering this question. Therefore, this study assesses the use and meaning of biological parenthood in relation to these future artificial reproductive technologies. Searches were conducted in six databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, HeinOnline, Westlaw Classic, and Philosopher's Index. Articles were included only if they met one of the following conditions: 1) a definition of biological parenthood, 2) a definition of genetic parenthood, 3) a definition of gestational parenthood, 4) a definition of biological, genetic, or gestational parenthood combined with either mitochondrial replacement therapy, in vitro gametogenesis, or ectogenesis. Of the 6,304 studies retrieved, 131 results were included for analysis. The review found multiple meanings of biological parenthood, encompassing different biological ties (genetic, gestational, and postnatal) and diverse conceptual methods of interpreting its meaning. The definition of gestational parenthood appears to be less univocal than the term initially suggests, and that of genetic parenthood has evolved. The lack of consensus on the meaning and definition of biological parenthood leads to inconsistent determinations of biological parenthood in relation to future artificial reproductive technologies. This raises serious doubts about whether biological parenthood can continue to play the fundamental role in ethical and legal perspectives on parenthood that it has held for a long time.