Project genetics, genomics: perception of the public, university students and teachers about new biological technologies

Objectives: To describe the perception of public and students about genetics, genomics and biomedical applications. Methods: Two methodological approaches were included: focus groups to mothers with children affected by diseases of genetic origin and focus groups to university students about their perception on genetics and biotechnology. The second approach consisted in two surveys to students, one about stem cell research and the second about presymptomatic genetic test. Results: Focus groups conducted in university students described narratives about genetic traits as an explanation of complex human behavior, such as violence and homosexuality, the conflict between nurture and nature and the apparent desire of application of genetic engineering with eugenic purposes. The surveys showed the positions of the university population on biotechnology applied to research on stem cells and the perception of the pre-symptomatic genetic test.