0 Designing The Super Babies: How PGD Enhances Success in In Vitro Fertilization

• IVF
• by Pureada Blog Team
• 01-02-2024

In the realm of assisted reproductive technologies, Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) has emerged as a groundbreaking tool, propelling In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) into the future. This innovative procedure allows prospective parents to delve into the genetic makeup of embryos, paving the way for the selection of embryos with optimal health and reduced risk of genetic disorders. In this article, we explore how PGD is reshaping the landscape of IVF and contributing to the design of what some may call "futuristic super babies."   Understanding PGD: Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis is a sophisticated technique employed during IVF to assess embryos for genetic abnormalities before implantation. Typically performed at the blastocyst stage, around day 5 or 6 of development, PGD involves the biopsy of a few cells from embryos. These cells undergo meticulous genetic analysis, allowing for the identification of specific genetic mutations or chromosomal disorders.   Benefits of PGD in IVF: 1. Precision in Embryo Selection:    PGD empowers prospective parents to make informed decisions about which embryos to implant. By identifying and selecting embryos without genetic abnormalities, the chances of a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy child are significantly increased.   2. Reducing Genetic Risks:    Couples with a known family history of genetic disorders or those who are carriers of genetic mutations can benefit immensely from PGD. This technology provides a proactive approach to family planning, helping to mitigate the risk of passing on hereditary conditions to future generations.   3. Enhancing IVF Success Rates:    The careful screening offered by PGD contributes to higher success rates in IVF procedures. By choosing embryos with optimal genetic health, healthcare providers can improve the likelihood of successful implantation and a healthy pregnancy.   Some examples of single gene disorders that can be diagnosed through Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis include; - Achondroplasia – Adrenoleukodystrophy – Agammaglobulinemia - Alpha-1-Antitrypsin - Alpha Thalassemia - Alport Syndrome - Alzheimer's disease - Early onset (PSEN1-2) - Becker Muscular Dystrophy - Beta Thalassemia - Charcot Marie Tooth- Cystic Fibrosis - Crouzon Syndrome - Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy – Dystonia - Epidermolysis Bullosa - Fanconi Anemia - Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) - Familial dysautonomia - Fragile-X Syndrome - Gaucher's Disease - Glycogen Storage Disease - Hemophilia A and B - HLA tissue typing - HSNF5 mutations - Huntington's disease - Hurler Syndrome  - Incontinentia pigment - Kell disease - Lesch Nyhan Syndrome  - Long Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase (LCHAD) deficiency - Marfan Syndrome - MELAS - Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type II (MEN II) - Multiple Epiphyseal Dysplasia - Myotonic Dystrophy - Myotubular Myopathy - Neurofibromatosis type I &type II - Norrie disease- Osteogenesis imperfecta I – IV - OTC Deficiency - P53 - Phenylketonuria - Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (Type I and II) - Retinitis Pigmentosa - SCA 6 - Sickle Cell Anemia - Sonic Hedgehog mutations - Spinal/Bulbar Muscular Atrophy - Spinal Muscular Atrophy - Tay-Sachs Disease - Translocations by FISH - Tuberous sclerosis - Von Hippel Lindau - Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome - X-linked hydrocephalus - X-linked hyper IgM syndrome   Ethical Considerations: While the potential of PGD in shaping the genetic destiny of offspring is undeniable, ethical considerations surround its use. The power to select certain genetic traits raises questions about the ethical boundaries of genetic engineering and the potential societal implications of creating "designer babies." The decision to undergo PGD is deeply personal, and ethical concerns should be addressed through open conversations with healthcare professionals and genetic counsellors.   As we navigate the future of reproductive medicine, PGD stands at the forefront, offering a glimpse into the potential for designing healthier generations. The ability to select embryos with optimal genetic health represents a transformative step in IVF, providing hope for prospective parents and contributing to the evolving landscape of assisted reproductive technologies. The journey towards designing futuristic super babies is underway, and PGD is a key player in this revolutionary narrative.