Racial bias and genomic underrepresentation in the context of polygenic risk scores in embryos: implications for genetic discrimination in assisted reproduction and the protection of vulnerable people

Abstract

Objective: To understand how the relationship between the genomic under-representation of vulnerable populations in assisted reproduction and racial biases implies dynamics that may be related to genetic discrimination and the exacerbation of inequalities. Methodology: This will be an analytical-descriptive, conceptual and exploratory study, using a deductive approach to carry out a conceptual review of how the genetic information of vulnerable people relates to genetic discrimination in assisted reproduction. Results: a) the effectiveness of polygenic risk scores in embryos has challenges in non-European populations due to the lack of representative genomic data, especially involving groups of African descent; b) an alarming absence of patents addressing genomic underrepresentation in patent filings was observed, suggesting a lack of concern for genetic diversity in assisted reproduction. Conclusion: Genomic under-representation and the lack of genetic diversity in assisted reproduction tend to accentuate the risk of genetic discrimination, revealing a technological privilege in favor of European and white middle-class populations.

Submitted: 03/12/25| Revision: 05/18/25| Approved: 05/21/25