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Scientists have developed a test that enables doctors
to screen embryos for low intelligence, by identifying a range of genetic
defects known to lead to learning difficulties.
The test has already been adapted for use by doctors
in the US and Spain. Using test-tube baby techniques, doctors have selected
only perfect embryos to be returned to the woman's womb.
According to a report in the Sunday Times (London)
"Some experts are concerned that such testing echoes Aldous
Huxley's Brave New World, in which epsilon babies were bred
in hatcheries for menial tasks while alphas lived a life of luxury."
"There is an urgent need for regulation of what constitutes legitimate
use of this type of genetic diagnosis," said Richard Nicholson, the
editor of the Bulletin of Medical Ethics, according to The Times. "Low
IQ is not life-threatening. This is a
significant step towards eugenics," he added.
The testing kit is being marketed by Cytocell, of
Banbury, UK and was developed from research at the Institute of Molecular
Medicine, Oxford. Scientists there have identified the specific arrangements
of genetic material on the telomeres, the ends of DNA strands in each
chromosome, which cause children to suffer anything from moderate learning
problems to mental handicap.
Research is now turning to the quest for other genetic
characteristics which may cause sub-normal intelligence, with the ultimate
goal of offering screening to women carrying naturally conceived babies.
The US government
is currently allocating significant federal funds into developing such
tests.
The Sunday Times,
November 26, 2000.
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