Initially an IVF cycle using PGT-A begins in the same way as any other, with the stimulation of the ovaries to produce eggs, followed by their collection and fertilisation. The embryos will then remain in culture in the laboratory for 5-6 days. On day 3 of embryo development the embryos will be assisted hatched in preparation for biopsy at the blastocyst stage.
PGT-A (Aneuploidy)
PGT-A (Aneuploidy)
PGT-A (Aneuploidy)
Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)
Next generation sequencing (NGS) is the most well-established of the available methods for pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) It allows us to comprehensively screen embryos for abnormalities in all 24 chromosomes before transfer. Genetically normal embryos have a higher chance of implantation and the resulting pregnancies have a lower chance of miscarriage. Testing embryos by NGS may therefore increase the likelihood of pregnancy, reduce the chances of a pregnancy loss, and improve the odds of a live birth outcome. Standard PGT is termed preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A). This covers the majority of requirements for patients looking to reduce the chance of miscarriage or infertility often associated with advanced maternal age.
We have chosen to work with Igenomix for the genetic screening of embryos as they have been established by pioneers in the field of genetics and have proven themselves to be extremely efficient and thorough when delivering results to us. They offer a comprehensible genetic counselling service when needed also. Particularly for patients where a hereditary condition has been identified (Please see PGT-M single gene disorder).
The Igenomix team has over 15 years of experience in embryo testing and has published a wide range of scientific papers in this area. As well as being on the cutting edge of technology, Igenomix also has a vast range of practical experience, and work with a number of large UK based clinics. They also have testing laboratories in Spain and Dubai. The Igenomix laboratory in the UK is fully accredited (UKAS) and provides access to the very latest methods for the genetic evaluation of sperm, eggs and embryos.
