(MIT Technology Review) – Genetic testing on embryos is more sophisticated and accessible than ever—and it’s now being sold as a way to let parents pick their future baby’s best traits.

Many Americans agree that it’s acceptable to screen embryos for severe genetic diseases. Far fewer say it’s okay to test for characteristics related to a future child’s appearance, behavior, or intelligence. But a few startups are now advertising what they claim is a way to do just that.

Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) has been around in some form since the 1990s. And established tests, such as those for chromosomal abnormalities or single-­gene disorders, are now becoming more accessible—great news for would-be parents at risk of passing on a severe genetic disease. 

In the past few years, startups have begun offering a new form of the technology called PGT-P, or preimplantation genetic testing for polygenic disorders (and, some claim, traits). (Read More)