Report: US Startup Offers IQ Screening for Embryos

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Facts

  • US-based startup Heliospect Genomics is reportedly deploying technology to enable couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) to screen their embryos for IQ.[1]
  • With a stated goal to advance 'genomic prediction,' it charges up to $50K to test 100 embryos, and claims its process achieves IQ gains of over six points.[2][1]
  • According to Heliospect employees, the couple may also use polygenic scoring based on a variety of traits including sex, height, obesity, and mental illness risk.[3]
  • Polygenic scoring requires the use of large genetic datasets or biobanks. Heliospect reportedly draws its data from UK Biobank, a publicly funded repository.[4][3]
  • The UK Biobank's data is drawn from 500K volunteers who, reports suggest, are predominantly white, educated, and wealthy. However, the repository offers access to everyone.[4]
  • Futurism has reported that Heliospect is connected to renowned figures in the pronatalist and pro-eugenics communities, including Jonathan Anomaly, who has held professorships at Duke and Oxford.[5][6]

Sources: [1]Guardian, [2]Heliospectgenomics, [3]FOX News, [4]Investigations, [5]NDTV.com and [6]Futurism.

Narratives

  • Narrative A, as provided by Investigations. Heliospect Genomics' polygenic embryo screening service favors wealthier clients and relies on genetic determinism that could exacerbate social inequality. Its use of UK Biobank data, primarily from white, affluent individuals, raises ethical questions about access to sensitive information and the broader societal implications of creating genetically engineered elites. Additionally, links to figures associated with far-right and scientific racism further taint their operations.
  • Narrative B, as provided by Aei. Heliospect Genomics' groundbreaking genetic screening service empowers individuals to make informed choices about genetic health. Such non-invasive screening could allow families to consider genetic information before even conception or early pregnancy. Heliospect's technology also emphasizes the importance of personal choice, aiming to improve human well-being through better health outcomes and a deeper understanding of our genetic makeup, without coercion.

Predictions