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Ethical implications of AI systems in bioengineering research
1  Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, Saudi Arabia
2  Research Associate, CREDIMI FRE 2003, CNRS - University of Burgundy, Dijon, France.
Academic Editor: Andrea Cataldo

Abstract:

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) systems with bioengineering technologies presents new ethical challenges that need to be carefully considered. One of the key ethical concerns is the potential for biases and errors in AI models as current large language models can sometimes provide incomplete or inaccurate information in specialized domains like bioengineering. There is a need for domain-specific AI models that are trained on the latest biomedical data and research to ensure the information provided is reliable and error-free. Other challenges lie in maintaining safety, transparency, privacy, accountability, and ethical governance when AI systems are used to aid bioengineering research or clinical decision-making. It is crucial that the reasoning and data behind AI-generated outputs are explainable and auditable, especially in high-stakes scenarios involving human health and safety. Robust governance frameworks are needed to ensure AI systems in bioengineering are used responsibly and ethically. Privacy and data governance are also critical ethical issues when it comes to using AI with biomedical and genomic data. There are also concerns surrounding the control and safeguarding of individuals' genetic information. The use of AI models that are trained on such sensitive data raises privacy risks that need to be carefully managed through strong data protection policies and safeguards. The use of AI systems to guide or automate aspects of such technologies could amplify some of the risks and concerns mentioned, such as off-target effects, ethical boundaries around human enhancement, and the need for robust informed consent processes. Ongoing multi-stakeholder dialogue and public engagement will be vital to ensure these powerful technologies are developed and deployed in a responsible, equitable, and socially conscious manner that prioritizes human wellbeing and environmental sustainability. A holistic and proactive approach that bridges bioengineering ethics and AI ethics will be key to navigating the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

Keywords: AI; bioengineering; transparency; explainability; privacy; accountability; ethics

 
 
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