Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis for Family Balancing
Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) may be used to obtain cells for genetic analysis from embryos created by in vitro fertilization (IVF).GIVF offers PGD for gender selection for the purpose of family balancing for couples that meet qualifying criteria. Initial qualifications are:
If desired and medically possible, the couple may participate in the MicroSort® sperm separation clinical trial.This technology allows for enrichment of X or Y bearing sperm for use in the PGD/IVF cycle.When MicroSort® separated sperm are used for fertilization, the number of embryos of the desired gender is usually increased.There are additional minimum qualifications for use of MicroSort® for sperm separation:
- Wife (or egg donor if applicable) 18-39 years of age
- Husband and wife (donor if applicable) negative for HIV and Hepatitis B & C
Analysis of the embryo takes advantage of one of the two highly sensitive techniques known as PCR and FISH. PCR (polymerase chain reaction) amplifies specific DNA sequences associated with the sex of the embryo and has proven to be a highly accurate and reliable technique for use with single cells.FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization) uses molecular DNA probes that have colored fluorescent dyes for the X and Y chromosomes. These fluorescent markers are then counted to determine if an embryo has an XX (female) or XY (male) FISH pattern. Both approaches have different advantages and disadvantages and will be discussed in detail during any consultation with GIVF physicians. Accuracy in diagnosis of the gender of the embryo is currently > 95%.
If you are interested in PGD for family balancing, you may arrange a consultation, either in person or by telephone, by contacting us at 800-552-4363 or 703-698-7355 or by sending e-mail to givf@givf.com
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