Preimplantation Genetic Testing:
PGT-A (formerly PGS) and PGT-M (formerly PGD)

It is possible to evaluate the genetic status of an embryo, produced by in vitro fertilization (IVF) before the embryo is transferred into the woman’s uterus. We provide two types of preimplantation genetic testing at our Lab. 

In both types, embryos produced by in vitro fertilization are grown for five or six days until they reach the blastocyst stage. At the blastocyst stage, the embryo is composed of two different kinds of cells: those that make the baby (inner cell mass or ICM) and trophoblast, cells that support implantation and help make the placenta. For genetic testing, we remove several of the trophoblast cells in our state-of-the-art Embryology Laboratory in a procedure called embryo biopsy. Those cells are prepared by our embryologists and are shipped to a specialty genetic testing laboratory for either preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy PGT-A (formerly PGS) or preimplantation genetic testing for monogentic/single-gene diseases, PGT-M (formerly PGD). The blastocysts are frozen until the genetic analysis is completed. Doctors at our center will review the genetics report and in consultation with the patients, advise as to which embryos are normal and available for embryo transfer.

PGT-A and PGT-M: What is the Difference?

Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) provides information about the embryo’s chromosomes whereas preimplantation genetic testing for monogentic/single-gene diseases (PGT-M) looks for the presence of a specific, disease-causing gene.

In PGT-A, embryos are screened for the presence and the correct number of every chromosome. Any variation of this, either an extra chromosome(s) or a missing chromosome(s), is an abnormality that can affect the ability of the embryo to live, grow and/or to implant when transferred. For certain cases, the presence of either an extra chromosome or the absence of one can be compatible with pregnancy and birth but will result in an affected child. Examples of this are Down Syndrome, produced by the presence of an extra chromosome 21, and Turner’s Syndrome, caused by the absence of one of the X chromosomes in females.

The Benefits of PGT-A (formerly PGS)

There are several important benefits of performing PGT-A. First, an embryo with the correct number of chromosomes has a significantly better chance of implanting in the uterus, thus increasing the chance of success for an in vitro fertilization procedure. This is particularly beneficial with increasing maternal age since women produce more chromosomally abnormal eggs as they age. Secondly, since pregnancy loss is often caused by chromosomal abnormalities, PGT-A can identify embryos that are more likely to result in miscarriage if transferred. Lastly, PGT-A can identify embryos carrying chromosomal abnormalities that are compatible with life but will produce an affected child.

In PGT-M, embryos are analysed for the presence of a specific abnormal gene, one that can cause disease and is known to be carried by the parents or to be present in the family of the parents. There are many diseases caused by defects in single genes: Thalassemia, haemophilia, spinal muscular atrophy, Tay Sachs Disease, Huntington’s Disease, cystic fibrosis, and sickle cell anemia are all examples. The procedure for PGT-M is the same as that for PGT-A and involves in vitro fertilization to produce embryos, followed by embryo biopsy of blastocysts. The biopsied samples are also prepared and sent to the genetics specialty laboratory, which has already acquired information about the parents, and their families in order to better identify the abnormal gene.

The Benefits of PGT-M (formerly PGD)

PGT-M has the ability to identify specific embryos that are either affected by a disease caused by a defect in a single gene or are carriers of the affected gene. By avoiding the transfer of affected embryos, patients can ensure that children resulting from IVF are free of the disease that plagues their families.

Can PGT-A and PGT-M Be Performed Together?

Yes, it is possible to evaluate the number of chromosomes along with the presence of a single gene defect in the same embryo.It should be noted that some embryos may not reach the blastocyst stage or may not be suitable for biopsy.

notice:

  • Keep in mind that preimplantation genetic diagnosis does not replace the recommendation for prenatal testing.
  • If you are interested in PGD, talk with your doctor, genetic counselor , or a fertility specialist to discuss your options.