Medical Art Center is at the forefront of chromosome and reproductive genetic testing in Nigeria. We offer Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for genetic conditions, including sickle cell anemia and chromosome aneuploidies. We work with Genesis Genetics, a world-renowned genetics institute and a pioneer of PGT testing of embryos for inherited genetic abnormalities.
Our success in PGT in the ability to diagnose improved significantly from 2010 when we did a day 3 biopsy (31% undiagnosed) to (9% undiagnosed) in 2014 when we changed to trophectoderm biopsy. We now have ongoing pregnancy in 4 patients. Two of them have singleton babies, while the other two have twins. These babies are all sickle cell-free.
What is PGT, and how is it done?
Pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) is used in assisted reproductive technology (ART) to detect genetic abnormalities in embryos before they are transferred to the uterus. The purpose of PGT-A is to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy by identifying embryos likely to lead to a healthy baby.
During PGT-A, a small sample of cells is taken from the embryo and analyzed to determine the number of chromosomes it contains. Normally, an embryo has 46 chromosomes, but in some cases, an embryo may have an abnormal number of chromosomes, a condition known as aneuploidy. This can result in conditions like Down syndrome or Turner syndrome, or lead to early miscarriage.
PGT-A can be performed using different techniques, including fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) or comprehensive chromosomal screening (CCS). The results of PGT-A are used to select the most viable embryo for transfer to the uterus, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby.
With Pre-implantation genetic testing, we can differentiate between genetically normal or affected embryos. Currently, this is the only way to determine the genetic condition of an embryo prior to pregnancy.
We have preliminary evidence to suggest that environmental toxins and diet play a major role in reducing fertility and possible IVF success. Most of these stem from the Founder’s ( Prof. Oladapo Ashiru) earlier basic research in reproductive toxicology. The use of Mayr therapy to detoxify the body and get rid of toxins/ heavy metals like mercury, arsenic, antimony, lead, and others as well as toxin and allergies from foods have enhanced our success in IVF and PGT.
Why you should consider Pre-implantation Genetic Testing
- Reduced miscarriages
- Reduced congenital disorders caused by irregularity in the chromosome number of eggs.
- Improved IVF birth rate per embryo transferred
- Improved live birth rate
- Reduced multiple pregnancies
Who should consider Pre-implantation Genetic Testing
- Women with a medical history of failed IVF
- Women with a medical history of repeated miscarriages
- Women older than 35 years
Consequences/Risks
PGT-A does not guarantee a healthy baby, as it only screens for the most common forms of aneuploidy and does not test for other genetic disorders or structural abnormalities. Additionally, PGT-A is an invasive procedure carrying a small risk of harm to the embryo.
Overall, PGT-A is a useful tool in ART and can increase the chances of a successful pregnancy, but it does not guarantee a healthy baby. It should be carefully considered in light of the potential risks and benefits.