Genetic Testing

Genetic Testing

One of the leading IVF centres in India, Seeds of Innocence has a dedicated genetic testing department at the helm of the research and testing on the embryos. Equipped with latest technology and maintained by a trained staff, the genetic testing side of our work helps us immensely in delivering healthy babies and creating happy families. Where the main aim is to fulfil the dream of parenthood for couples, SOI takes pride in having helped more 12,000 couples in the country so far, across 12 centers in 7 states.

Genetic Testing usually involves tests that are performed at various stages, including during IVF, during pregnancy, and other tests to identify and prevent hereditary diseases at any given stage ofthe treatment.

Genetic Testing During IVF

The sperms and the Egg of a female contain their own genetic material and information that helps in determining the future of the resulting offspring. That is why after egg retrieval and ICSI, a few cells are taken from the embryo so they can be tested by the genetics laboratory. The transfer of the embryo only takes after the results of the genetic test are available. It must be noted that this test does not alter the timeline of the overall treatment.

Here is a nod to all the genetic testing services that we at SOI provide to our patients:

• PGT-A
  PGT stands for Preimplantation Genetic Testing, while the A in PGT-A stands for “aneuploidies”. In this test, the embryo is tested for all 46 chromosomes for a missing or an extra chromosome, a condition that is called aneuploidy. PGT-A is very useful in testing the most likely embryo for complications that may later develop into conditions like the Down Syndrome.
• PGT-M
  PGT-M is the condition in which the testing is performed for monogenic or single gene disorders. This testing reduces the risk of the child contracting an inherited diseases caused by the mutation of a single gene, like cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease.
• HLA Matching
  HLA matching is a way to cure a family member of a hereditary disease using the stem cell from a preserved sample of cord blood. HLA or Human Leukocyte Antigen is an important part of our DNA, and thus plays a large role in acceptance of a donor material later in our life. That is why during the IVF cycle, the embryo is tested for an HLA match with the affected family member, and the cord blood sample will then be stored after the birth of the baby.

Genetic Testing During Pregnancy

Seeds of Innocence provides 3 types of genetic testing during pregnancy. The first test is a non-invasive method of identifying any complications with the developing fetus, the second is a tool for identifying the cause of recurring miscariages in women, while the third to understand the effect of recurrent abortions on the health of the woman.

• Non-Invasive Pre-Natal Testing
  The test screens for the small amount of DNA of the baby that can be found in the mother’s blood. This is an important test to predict and prepare for genetic disorders like Down syndrome.
• Product of Conception Analysis
  Recurrent abortions can also have their own impact on the current pregnancy. That is why screening is performed to keep a regular check on the development of the baby.
• Recurrent Abortion
  Recurrent abortions can also have their own impact on the current pregnancy. That is why screening is performed to keep a regular check on the development of the baby.

Identify and Prevent Hereditary Disease

There are a few other tests that are strictly used for only the identification of the hereditary diseases; the conditions that have been passed on from the parent directly to the offspring. These tests are primarily aimed at preventing the same hereditary diseases from coming into the offspring.

• Mutation Screening
  It is the testing that is done when the genetic disease has previously been identified or has a history in the family. It can identify diseases caused by a fewer number of mutations or nutations in smaller genes.
• Exome Screening
  This testing is primarily used for unidentified hereditary diseases or for polygenic diseases, conditions that require the interaction of 2 or more genes. Instead of screening and concentrating at a gene or a related small group of genes, this testing analyzes tens of thousands of impotant genes at the same time.
• Premarital or Preconception Screening
  A screening that helps the couple ensure that their children will not be at the risk of any hereditary or genetic disease before marriage or conception. It can be used as a tool to determine the possibility of a disease in the future child especially if there is a history of the disease. In some cases, the screening is also a precautionary step.