Pharmacy Daily | Should AI be able to select embryos?

RESEARCHERS at Monash University have flagged concerns surrounding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in fertility treatment.

In an article published by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, researchers highlighted several ethical worries when it comes to using machine learning tools to improve the selection of human embryos for transfer.

While the AI tools can help increase the chances of a successful pregnancy and reduce the time and cost of treatments, it carries the risk of dehumanising patients, algorithmic bias, transparency and equitable access.

"The use of AI in embryo selection means that computer algorithms are beginning to make decisions about who is brought into the world," lead author Dr. Julian Koplin said.

"There are some important benefits to this technology - but it does involve AI interfering with a particularly sensitive area of human life, which needs to be handled carefully and respectfully."

Co-author Dr. Johnston said several assisted reproductive clinics in Australia have recently begun rolling out AI in clinical practice, with many others expected to follow suit in the near future.

The researchers emphasised the need for careful decisions about how accountability for clinical outcomes will be managed, how the tools will be monitored, and how patients will be informed about (and can opt out of) their use.