Ethical Concerns Arise Over UK IVF Clinics Ranking Embryos by Genetic Potential

Couples undergoing IVF in the UK are exploiting a legal loophole to rank their embryos based on genetic predictions of IQ, height, and health, according to The Guardian. This controversial screening technique, which scores embryos based on their DNA, is not permitted at UK fertility clinics, leading to scientific and ethical objections due to its unproven nature.

Dr. Cristina Hickman, a senior embryologist and founder of Avenues fertility clinic in London, highlighted the legal and ethical confusion arising from rapid advancements in embryo screening techniques.

A US company named Herasight, which charges couples $50,000 for unlimited embryo assessments, has already worked with couples from UK clinics. One patient, a 29-year-old woman, expressed hopes of reducing disease risks and selecting embryos with high predicted IQ.

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, or HFEA, states that polygenic testing is unlawful for embryo selection in the UK. Peter Thompson, the chief executive of the HFEA, emphasized that UK licensed clinics should not make decisions based on such testing.

However, there is nothing stopping UK couples from seeking this testing abroad. Critics argue that this practice may lead to a stratified society where wealthier individuals can select preferred embryos, potentially normalizing the belief in genetic superiority.

The European Society of Genetics condemned polygenic screening as unproven and unethical. Prof. Angus Clarke from Cardiff University cautioned that parents may struggle with the expectations tied to selecting embryos based on these predictions.

In response to the criticisms, Herasight stated that it transforms routine PGT-A data provided by clients, without influencing embryo selection at clinics. The situation raises significant ethical questions about genetic selection and its implications for future generations, highlighting the intersection of technology and ethics in reproductive health.