Whole-genome sequencing and IVF

In vitro fertilization often requires parents to select from among a number of embryos for implants, and a new process make assist parents in screening for random genetic mutations.

Current methods allow screening for heredity abnormalities or chromosomal problems, but newer whole-genome sequencing can now allow parents to screen for even random mutations with just a few cells prior to embryo implantation. This ensures the implantation of the healthiest embryos with the highest chance of success for live birth.

Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis is used in fertility clinics to detect large chromosomal abnormalities or genetic mutations passed on by parents to their in vitro fertilized embryos. However, it is not possible to comprehensively scan the embryo’s genome to detect spontaneous mutations. Scientists have now developed a whole-genome sequencing approach using 5- to 10-cell biopsies from human embryos to detect potential disease-causing mutations.

If you have questions regarding Melbourne IVF and whole-genome sequencing, contact Viera Fertility Center for  more information today!

Reference:

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. (2015, February 11). Mutation detection in human in vitro fertilized embryos using whole-genome sequencing. ScienceDaily. Retrieved February 23, 2015 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/02/150211141240.htm