Begun in 2149 CE with the two stated goals of (1) Concentrating Hoister psi abilities to counteract genetic drift, and (2) Eliminating/Repairing the defective gene cluster that caused the Family's prolactin deficiency.
The Genetic Program was under the direction of the Hoister Family Genetic Board, which consisted of a few Family members, some trusted Schmidt Foundation personnel, and a few good geneticists.
Under the terms of the Genetic Program, the Hoister Fifth Generation did not birth any children; rather, they allowed the Genetic Board to use their genetic material to produce the Sixth Generation in vitro. (An exception was made for Roy Reed, in order to allow the continuation of the Reed Line Governors of Teleskany [chart].)
For the Sixth Generation, the Genetic Board combined the genes of Normals and Paranormals in order to concentrate the dominant (P) psi gene. An intact gene complex for prolactin production was introduced into the zygotes, eliminating the bothersome prolactin deficiency. (This gene complex was taken from Paula Reed, who was thus the only non-Family contributor to the Hoister genetic legacy.) Although the genetic basis of the sporadic psi teleport ability was totally unknown, attempts were made to concentrate the lines of psi teleports.
Out of 57 viable embryos produced, 34 were culled as less than perfect. The remaining 23 individuals were all born on 1 January 2321 CE at New Athens, Mars. (At this time, only six members of the Family survived: Don Hoister, Celeste Gipe, Craig Gipe, Jean Schmidt, and Joel Schmidt. The youngest was Craig Gipe, Age 68.) They were given names in alphabetical order, beginning with Andy and ending with Ward. The Sixth Generation was raised by Brynhilde and teachers hired by the Schmidt Foundation.
The Seventh Generation, again produced in vitro, resulted from further recombination of the Sixth's excellent genes. Emphasis was placed on doubling the dominant (P) psi gene to achieve double-dominant (PP) individuals. In addition, further concentration of the psi-teleport lines was attempted. Of 73 viable embryos, just 18 were selected for birth, and on 30 June 2347 CE, they emerged from the New Athens labs. The naming pattern was continued, beginning with Xanthe, York, and Zena, and then starting over with Alan, Beryl, etc. through Quinn.
The Seventh Generation were raised communally by their parents, with assistance from Brynhilde, the Wakmarrel School, and the Schmidt Foundation.
The greatest care was taken to eliminate genetic defects and concentrate beneficial traits in the Eighth Generation. Intelligence, stamina, and longevity were primary traits selected, but attempts were made to reinforce other traits less well-understood.
A full 128 viable embryos were produced; nine were chosen as being superior. These nine (all male) were cloned to produce four copies; in two of these, the Y chromosome was removed and discarded, and a replicated X put in its place. Ultimately, then, each embryo grew into a group of four identical clones, two female and two male.
Distinct names were chosen for each clone, but all four of the same clone group started with the same letter. Thus, the first clone group consisted of Rickard, Randy, Robin, and Reena; the last consisted of Zeph, Zenas, Zana, and Zabrina.
Instead of birthing all the groups on the same day and year, births occurred on 30 October in successive years, beginning with the R-Group in 2462 and concluding with the Z-Group in 2470. This was on the advice of psychological and sociological models suggesting that such a pattern would maximize psychological ties between the clones, while creating a more stimulating and rewarding environment for the entire group.
The Eighth Generation were raised on Helox by Brynhilde, assisted by Sanjay Resklich of the Wakmarrel School and numerous specialists hired by the Schmidt Foundation.
Although preliminary plans for a Ninth Generation were considered, they came to no fruition, and the Eighth Generation marked the effective end of the Hoister Family Genetic Program.
