Learn More about PGT‑A at Aspire HFI in Houston
If you have questions about preimplantation genetic testing, contact Aspire Houston Fertility Institute. Our team is ready to meet you right where you are in your fertility journey.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy
Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) is a valuable tool for parents who do not have known genetic mutations associated with disease and are presumed to have a normal karyotype. PGT-A screens embryos to confirm that they have the correct number of chromosomes. At Aspire Houston Fertility Institute, we help patients by providing reassurance that their embryos are likely chromosomally normal, thereby increasing their chances of a successful pregnancy.
What Is PGT‑A Fertility Treatment?
PGT‑A involves a standard biopsy procedure performed on embryos prior to implantation. This allows screening of the embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before being transferred in an IVF cycle.
Chromosomal abnormalities can lead to failed implantation or early loss of pregnancy. Screening enables specialists to identify embryos with normal structure that have the best chance for l implantation. Pregnancy success after PGT‑A typically depends on the age of the intended carrier. Patients under 35 have a higher chance of successful implantation than those over 35. PGT‑A testing will not damage the embryo.
PGT with Chromosomal Microarray Analysis (CMA)
PGT with Chromosomal Microarray Analysis is an advanced technique that can identify healthy embryos. PGT‑CMA requires a biopsy of just a few cells from day five or six embryos, allowing the lab to screen all 23 pairs of chromosomes and a pair of sex chromosomes.
New 24 Chromosome Analysis:
Once the biopsy is performed, the genetic material is extracted from the cells. A laboratory specializing in genetics will examine the material to determine that the normal chromosomal complement is present. The genetic material is first amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to provide ample material for analysis.
Currently, this genetic testing is more commonly used to determine chromosome copy number. A normal number is 23 pairs of chromosomes. This is also called, by some, “24-chromosome analysis” as there are 22 autosomes and the sex chromosomes, X and Y, that are analyzed.
Once the genetic material from the biopsy is amplified, the product is examined with one of several techniques including: Comparative Genomic Hybridization (CGH), Array CGH, Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) Microarray, and Next Generation Sequencing. All of these techniques for PGT are available at Aspire Houston Fertility Institute.
Identification and transfer of normal embryos leads to increased pregnancy and delivery rates with decreased miscarriages due to an abnormal number of chromosomes (e.g. trisomy 21, or Down Syndrome).
Who Benefits from PGT‑A?
PGT‑A may be recommended for:
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Patients who have experienced recurrent miscarriages
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Multiple IVF failures
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Advanced maternal age (>35)
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Desire to limit number of embryos transferred
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Couples with severe male factor infertility
Any patient undergoing IVF can benefit from preimplantation genetic testing.