Heliospect Genomics

History

2024: Launch of IQ measurement service in embryos

In mid-October 2024, it became known that Heliospect Genomics offers wealthy couples undergoing IVF to measure the IQ of the embryo using a controversial technology. Records show the company sells its services for up to $50,000 for checking 100 embryos and claims to have helped some parents choose future children based on genetic intelligence predictions. Managers boasted that their methods could yield an increase of more than six IQ points.

Video footage of the Heliospect Genomics proposals was obtained by the group Hope Not Hate, which worked undercover. In the personnel, the company's managers advertise experimental methods of genetic selection. A Heliospect employee told clients they could rank up to 100 embryos based on "IQ and other important characteristics," including gender, height, risk of obesity and risk of mental illness.

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The start-up claims its forecasting tools were created using data provided by UK Biobank - a taxpayer-funded repository of genetic material that should only share data in projects that are "in the public interest." Embryo selection based on predicted IQ is not acceptable under UK law, although it is permitted in the US.

Heliospect managers said the US-registered company operates within all applicable laws and regulations. Heliospect is operating in "hidden mode" ahead of its public launch and is still developing its service, they said. They added that customers who screened fewer embryos paid about $4,000 for the services, and that the company's prices at launch would match those of competitors.^[1]

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