The appeal for petitioners

We are writing this letter on behalf of The Joint Appeal Against Human and Animal Patenting. The Joint Appeal represents a wide ranging group of religious leaders who are opposed to the patenting of human embryos, genes, cells and the patenting of animals including those with human genes engineered into their permanent genetic code. We've enclosed a partial list of religious leaders who have already signed the joint appeal.

With modern gene splicing techniques it is now possible to add, delete and recombine genetic material across species boundaries. Scientists have already created a variety of animals which contain human genes. They have also begun to experiment with the genetic engineering of humans. The new techniques in genetic engineering offer exciting possibilities for the curing of disease and for helping to preserve nature's diversity. Unfortunately, indiscriminate use of these techniques represents a very real threat to the dignity and integrity of human life. For example, human embryos, fetal parts, cells and genes can now be genetically engineered and patented. Scientists and corporations are already claiming patents on hundreds of human genes and hundreds of genetically engineered animals. The World Council of Churches has officially opposed the patenting of animals and human genes, cells and organs...