"Now, companies are offering the newest type, PGT-P (for polygenic), which uses DNA databases from adults to estimate an embryo's genetic predisposition to conditions that aren't driven by just a single gene. It's the most controversial of the bunch. Zoom in: The polygenic tests can cost several thousand dollars on top of IVF, which can total tens of thousands more."
"State of play: It's an "emerging consumer phenomenon" for people who don't have fertility issues or known genetic risks to do "elective IVF for the purposes of having a healthier, taller [child], whatever 'best' is to them," says Kian Sadeghi, CEO of genetic testing startup Nucleus Genomics. His company screens not only for cancers and other health concerns, but for traits like height, IQ and male-pattern baldness."
Elective IVF with preimplantation genetic testing is expanding beyond traditional clinical indications. PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities like those linked to Down syndrome and can also determine sex. PGT-M screens for single-gene diseases such as Tay-Sachs and is widely supported for known carriers. PGT-P uses adult DNA databases to estimate polygenic predispositions for complex traits and disease risks and is the most controversial. Polygenic testing often adds several thousand dollars to IVF costs. Companies market risk assessments for autism, Alzheimer's, Type 2 diabetes, arthritis, schizophrenia, and traits like height, IQ, and male-pattern baldness. Ethical debates center on elective trait selection and access.
Read at Axios
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