Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis


 

Publication Date: February 2006

Publisher: Genetics and Public Policy Center

Author(s): Audrey Huang

Research Area: Health

Keywords: Preimplantation genetic diagnosis; In vitro fertilization

Type: Brief

Abstract:

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis, or PGD, is the genetic testing of embryos produced through in vitro
fertilization (IVF). PGD enables physicians to identify embryos carrying specific genetic alterations that can cause disease, and transfer those without the specific genetic alterations into a woman's uterus to start a pregnancy. PGD allows couples at risk of having children
with serious genetic disorders to increase their chances of having a child without the disorder.