Alkioseksi

Alkioseksi, or embryo sex selection, is the practice of choosing the sex of a human embryo before implantation during assisted reproductive technology, most commonly in vitro fertilization (IVF). The goal is to transfer embryos of a desired sex, often for medical reasons such as preventing X-linked recessive diseases, or, less commonly, for family balancing in places where permitted.

Methods: The technique relies on preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to determine the embryo’s sex by analyzing chromosomes. After a few cells are biopsied from the blastocyst, laboratory analyses such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), SNP microarray, or next-generation sequencing (NGS) determine XX or XY status. Embryos of the undesired sex are not transferred.

Regulation and ethics: Legal allowances vary widely. Some countries permit sex selection only for medical reasons (to avoid X-linked diseases); others ban it for non-medical reasons. Professional bodies emphasize caution due to ethical concerns about gender bias, population balance, and potential coercion.

Effectiveness and risks: While modern PGT methods can determine sex with high accuracy, results are not flawless due to mosaicism and testing errors. Embryo biopsy carries a small risk to embryo viability, and sex selection does not guarantee a successful pregnancy. Sex selection does not eliminate all genetic risk when diseases are not sex-linked.

History: The use of PGT for sex determination emerged in the late 20th century, with expanding capabilities in the 2000s. Regulation has evolved as professional guidelines and laws differ by jurisdiction.

See also: Preimplantation genetic testing, IVF, gender selection policy.