REPRODUCTIVE GENETIC TESTING
PGT-A
🔬 What is PGT-A Testing?
Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A), previously known as Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS), is a powerful genetic screening tool used in conjunction with In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). The primary goal of PGT-A is to identify which embryos have the correct number of chromosomes—a condition known as euploidy—before they are transferred to the uterus.
🔬Why is PGT-A Important?
Every human cell should typically have 46 chromosomes (23 pairs). An embryo with a missing or extra chromosome is called aneuploid, and this is a common occurrence, particularly as the age of the egg provider increases. Aneuploidy is a leading cause of:
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Failed embryo implantation
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Miscarriage (pregnancy loss)
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Genetic conditions in a live-born child (like Down syndrome, which is Trisomy 21—an extra copy of chromosome 21).
By screening for these chromosomal abnormalities, PGT-A helps us select the most genetically normal embryos, which can increase the chance of a successful pregnancy and a healthy live birth.
🔬How PGT-A Testing Can Help a Family
- Increased Chance of Successful Implantation: By identifying and transferring only euploid (chromosomally normal) embryos, PGT-A dramatically improves the likelihood that the embryo will implant in the uterus and develop into a pregnancy. This is especially beneficial for women of advanced maternal age, who have a higher incidence of aneuploid embryos.
- Reduced Risk of Miscarriage: Chromosomal abnormalities are a leading cause of early miscarriage. By screening out aneuploid embryos, PGT-A helps to avoid transfers that are destined to fail, thereby reducing the emotional and physical toll of recurrent miscarriages.
- Reduced Risk of Genetic Disorders: PGT-A lowers the risk of having a child with a chromosomal condition like Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), or Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13). This provides families with greater assurance about the genetic health of their future child.
- Fewer IVF Cycles and Faster Time to Pregnancy: By selecting the most viable embryos, PGT-A can lead to fewer embryo transfers needed to achieve a pregnancy. This can shorten the overall time to conception and reduce the financial and emotional burden associated with multiple failed IVF cycles.
- Emotional Well-being: For couples who have experienced previous miscarriages or failed IVF attempts, or who are anxious about genetic conditions, PGT-A can offer a significant degree of peace of mind and hope, knowing they have done everything possible to select the healthiest embryo.
Why Choose Gene on Link Laboratory
Most Advanced Sequencing Platform
Gene on Link Laboratory is equipped with Illumina’s newest sequencer—the MiSeq i100 Plus—which provides highly stable and reliable sequencing data.
Robust Testing Kit
Gene on Link Laboratory utilizes the most robust testing kits, supported by more than 45 publications. The kit also minimizes hands-on time, which helps significantly reduce operational errors.
