Embryo Screening

• During IVF embryos are fertilised in a laboratory. Before implantation, it is possible to remove a cell from an embryo and analyse its genes
• Many genetic disorders can be detected in this way
• It is also possible to get DNA from an embryo in the womb and test it for disorders
• There are many ethical, social and economic concerns surrounding embryo screening
• Embryos with ‘bad’ alleles will be destroyed, screening can also result in the pregnancy being terminated
• Against embryo screening

  • implies that people with genetic problems are ‘undesirable’ this can create prejudice
  • Screening is expensive
• For embryo screening

  • Stops people suffering
  • Treating the disorders costs alot
  • There are laws to stop it going too far