# Precautions for polygenic embryo selection: prohibition or cautious use

## TL;DR

This paper discusses the ethical issues of using genetic scores to select embryos and suggests policies to manage the risks.

## Contribution

The paper proposes policy responses to the ethical and social risks of polygenic embryo selection.

## Key findings

- Polygenic embryo selection may lead to false expectations and socio-ethical harms.
- Environmental factors and offspring autonomy can affect the outcomes of selected traits.
- Policymakers should consider prohibiting or cautiously regulating this practice.

## Abstract

Polygenic scores derived from inborn genetic variation are expected to predict individuals’ complex traits. Preimplantation genetic testing for polygenic scores is already offered to help parents select embryos deemed “healthy” and/or “intelligent”, raising ethical concerns. This paper analyzes the implications of polygenic embryo selection and proposes policy responses. Although substantial clinical uncertainty persists, use is likely to expand because parents seek desirable traits. Yet resulting offspring may not meet such expectations due to environmental influences (including parental behavior), offspring's genomes, and their autonomy. These practices risk generating socio-ethical harms, including false expectations, child objectification, and trait-based stigma. Professional societies and policymakers should therefore warn parents about these risks, and consider prohibiting polygenic embryo selection, although they might eventually permit cautious use for serious late-onset diseases.