DNA Testing Kit for Prediction of Genetic Diseases in an Unborn Child

A DNA testing home kit which can predict the possibility of about 250 recessive genetic diseases being passed on to an unborn child has been developed by a Sydney based company, Lumigenix.

Clients can do this test themselves by taking a sample of their saliva and sending it to the company. The DNA is tested in the company's laboratory and the results of the test are posted online. The client can access their information by giving the correct password.

Researchers feel that this test could give the prospective parents family planning options until they opt for in-vitro fertilization. However ethicists warn that this test could create unnecessary anxiety and lead couples into making misinformed choices about a pregnancy or abortion.


Source: Medindia