PGD: study of the genetic material of an embryo

Preimplantational Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) is the technique in which the genetic material of an embryo is studied from one or more of its cells, obtained by biopsy of embryos obtained by in vitro fertilization. The embryo biopsy can be performed at day 3 of development or at day 5. It is performed in duly accredited Reproduction Laboratories.

Situations in which PGD is used

  1. To detect embryos carrying chromosomal abnormalities.
  2. To detect embryos carrying genes that cause a serious or incurable genetic disease or that increase the possibility or predisposition to suffer it.
  3. To select an embryo histocompatible with a sibling already born with the aim of obtaining stem cells, almost always from the blood of its umbilical cord (therapeutic purposes).
  4. Selecting the sex of an embryo to avoid sex-linked diseases.

Indications for PGD

  1. History of serious genetic diseases for which the altered gene is known.
  2. Parents who are carriers of chromosomal alterations.
  3. Advanced maternal age.
  4. Repeated miscarriages.
  5. Sex-linked diseases.
  6. Determination of histocompatibility for stem cell treatment of a relative (sibling) with a serious disease.
  7. Progenitors carrying mutated genes predisposing to cancer.
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