preimplantationgenetiikka

Preimplantation genetic testing, often abbreviated as PGT, is a medical procedure used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF) to screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before they are transferred to the uterus. This process allows for the identification of chromosomal abnormalities, such as aneuploidy (an abnormal number of chromosomes), as well as specific single-gene defects. PGT is typically performed on embryos that are a few days old, after they have undergone cell division in the laboratory. A small number of cells are carefully removed from the embryo, and these cells are then analyzed for genetic conditions. The primary goal of PGT is to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy by selecting embryos that are less likely to result in a miscarriage or the birth of a child with a serious genetic disorder. It is considered for individuals or couples with a known family history of genetic diseases, those who have experienced recurrent miscarriages, or older women undergoing IVF. The information obtained from PGT can help guide decisions about which embryos to transfer, thereby potentially improving IVF success rates and reducing the risk of passing on hereditary conditions.