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Spaces of stem cell science: exploring processes of translational research

Grant reference: RES-350-27-0001

Journal article details

Title Human embryos as boundary objects? : some reflections on the biomedical worlds of embryonic stem cells and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis.

Description In this paper we offer some reflections on embryos in the biomedical worlds of embryonic stem cells (ESC) and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). We draw upon two ethnographic studies of the social practices of PGD and embryonic stem cell science to examine the notion of boundary objects as an approach for understanding the social construction of embryos. We analyze the ways in which human embryos have similar and different meanings in the related social worlds of ESC and PGD labs through a discussion of two major themes: the goals of PGD and ESC; and linking the worlds of ESC and PGD. We suggest the interface between the two cultures of PGD and ESC science can facilitate the flow of concepts, skills, materials and techniques within and between these two social worlds. In conclusion, we argue this is a salient case study of the production of biomedicine as a social and material practice in the emerging sphere of new medical technologies.

Url http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14636770701843550

Url Description Abstract

Language English

Primary contributor

Author Clare Williams

Additional contributors

Author Steven Wainwright

Author Mike Michael

Author Kathryn Ehrich

Keywords

human embryos; boundary objects; pre-implantation genetic diagnosis; embryonic stem cells; new medical technologies; genetic disorders; embryo research

Additional details

Volume number 27

Issue number 1

Is this item peer reviewed (refereed)? Yes

ISSN 1463-6778

Publisher Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group

Date of publication 01 January 2008

Page reference 7-18

Place of publication Abingdon

Is this item a pre-print or post-print? Postprint

Title of journal New genetics & society

Cite this outcome

Citation Style:

Harvard

Williams, Clare et al (2008) Human embryos as boundary objects? : some reflections on the biomedical worlds of embryonic stem cells and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis.. New genetics & society. 27 (1), pp. 7-18 Abingdon: Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group.

Vancouver

Williams Clare et al. Human embryos as boundary objects? : some reflections on the biomedical worlds of embryonic stem cells and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis.. New genetics & society 2008; 27 (1): 7-18.