5万美元筛选「超级婴儿」, 智商提升15点？马斯克被曝是客户

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the controversial practice of "designing" children through advanced genetic screening technologies, particularly in Silicon Valley, raising ethical questions about the implications of creating "super babies" and the potential for a new form of elitism in society [1][4][25]. Group 1: Technology and Market Dynamics - Elon Musk is reportedly using embryo multi-gene screening services for at least one of his children, highlighting the growing interest among wealthy individuals in these technologies [1][11]. - The technology, known as Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Polygenic Traits (PGT-P), allows parents to select embryos based on a detailed "attribute card" that includes a Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) [4][5]. - Several startups, including Genomic Prediction and Orchid, have developed proprietary algorithms to calculate these scores, with a focus on disease prevention, while newer entrants like Nucleus Genomics and Herasight are pushing the boundaries into intelligence screening [6][12][16]. Group 2: Ethical Concerns and Scientific Limitations - Leading genetic organizations have warned against the clinical application of these technologies, emphasizing that "DNA is not destiny" and that the effectiveness of PGT-P in embryo diagnosis has not been clinically validated [3][19][21]. - The algorithms used for PRS are primarily based on data from individuals of Western European descent, raising concerns about their reliability for diverse ethnic backgrounds [22][24]. - The article stresses the ethical implications of using such technologies for traits like intelligence or appearance, contrasting it with the use of genetic testing to prevent severe hereditary diseases [25][26].