Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) for Embryo Chromosome Analysis

Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) for Embryo Chromosome Analysis

Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) for Embryo Chromosome Analysis, also known as Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A), determines the chromosomal status of an embryo by screening all 23 chromosome pairs. This provides valuable insights for researchers studying in vitro fertilization (IVF).

IVF failure can sometimes result from embryo aneuploidy—an abnormal number of chromosomes. Aneuploidy can occur in any embryo; however, the likelihood increases with maternal age.

With this technique, a woman’s age and the number of previous failed IVF attempts become less significant. As a result, only one carefully selected embryo is transferred, regardless of the woman’s age or previous failed attempts. The reason for this is that pregnancy rates using Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) for Embryo Chromosome Analysis, with single embryo transfer, reach approximately 70% in this patient group.

While PGS does not correct an abnormal embryo, it helps select the most viable embryo, maximizing the chances of a successful live birth.

Additional Benefits of This Technique:

1. A significant reduction in miscarriage risk to just 8-9%.
2. An almost complete elimination of twin pregnancies.

How Is Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) for Embryo Chromosome Analysis Performed?

• Embryo Biopsy: A sample of cells is taken from the embryo at the blastocyst stage (day 5 after fertilization) without affecting its development.
• Chromosome Analysis: The sample is analyzed in the laboratory using advanced techniques such as Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to ensure that the embryo has a normal 46-chromosome count.
• Selection of Healthy Embryos: Only embryos without chromosomal abnormalities are selected to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
• Embryo Transfer to the Uterus: The selected embryos are transferred into the mother’s uterus to achieve a successful pregnancy.

Who Are the Candidates for Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) for Embryo Chromosome Analysis?

• Women over 35 years old, as the risk of chromosomal abnormalities increases with age.
• Couples with a history of recurrent miscarriages.
• Couples with a history of previous failed IVF attempts.
• Individuals with genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities in their family.