Polygenic Embryo Screening: Towards Informed Decision-Making

Recent progress in complex trait genetics, coupled with the technical ability to generate accurate genome-wide genotypes from single-cell input, has made it possible to genetically screen embryos for common polygenic traits and disease risk. However, little empirical work has been done to quantify the utility of polygenic embryo screening (PES), examine its ethical implications, and assess stakeholder perspectives. Our study is designed to provide the necessary empirical basis for informed ethical discussion.

Supported by: R01HG011711-01, National human genome research institute

Principle Investigators

• Todd Lencz, Ph.D.
• Shai Carmi, Ph.D.
• Gabriel Lázaro-Muñoz, Ph.D., J.D.
   

BCM Personnel

• Stacey Pereira, Ph.D.
• Kristin Kostick, Ph.D.
• Ignatia Barbara Van den Veyver, M.D.
• Dorit Barlevy, Ph.D.
• Meghna Mukherjee

Lázaro-Muñoz, Pereira, S., Carmi, S., & Lencz, T. (2021). Screening embryos for polygenic conditions and traits: ethical considerations for an emerging technology. Genetics in Medicine, 23(3), 432–434.

Lencz, Lazaro-Munoz, G., Pereira, S., & Carmi, S. (2021). Polygenic embryo screening: science fiction or science Fact? European Neuropsychopharmacology, 51, e21–e22.2