Emergence of Genetic Screening Technology

A US tech startup, Heliospect Genomics, proposes a controversial genetic screening service that allows prospective parents to select embryos based on various traits, including intelligence and physical attributes. Unlike traditional IVF clinics, Heliospect functions as a tech company, analyzing genetic data to provide predictions about the future children’s traits. Their pitch includes the ability to screen up to 100 embryos for a cost of $50,000, suggesting that parents could choose embryos based on desired characteristics like IQ. This service, however, raises ethical questions, particularly since it is not legally offered in places like the UK, highlighting the disparity in genetic selection practices across regions.