Non-Invasive Preimplantation Genetic Screening using Free DNA from Spent Embryo Media
SUMMARY
A UCLA physician has developed a novel method to screen for embryonic genetic competency during the in vitro fertilization process by using the free DNA released from a candidate embryo.
BACKGROUND
During the process of in vitro fertilization (IVF), preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) or preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) can be completed to assess candidate embryos for genetic abnormalities that can cause genetic diseases, infertility, stillbirths, or abnormal sexual development. PGS and PGD greatly increase the chance of producing a healthy baby, especially for couples with a family history of genetic disorders or miscarriages. Unfortunately, current PGS and PGD methods are invasive and may damage the embryo. These methods require biopsies on day 3 of the process and remove 1 or 2 cells from the 6- to 10-cell embryo. This is a significant percentage of the biomass of the embryo and could affect development. In addition, the high cost of PGS or PGD (typically $2,000-$10,000) prevents many couples from utilizing the tests. A less invasive, less expensive method of testing candidate embryos for genetic abnormalities prior to implantation could greatly increase the success rate of IVF procedures.
A UCLA physician has developed a novel method to noninvasively obtain embryonic DNA and screen for genetic competency during the IVF process. As the embryos develop, they are commonly transported between different media. The embryos generally expel molecules, including DNA, into the media in which they develop, which is termed "spent media." The inventors propose to use the expelled DNA for preimplantation genetic screening, which is highly advantageous over current testing methods because it is minimally invasive and significantly lower in cost.
APPLICATIONS
Target Markets:
- In Vitro Fertilization
- Prenatal Diagnostic Testing
Competitive Benefits:
- Non-invasive genetic screening of IVF embryos
- Reduced cost compared to PGS and PGD methods
STATE OF DEVELOPMENT
The inventors have established that there is enough free embryonic DNA in the spent media to amplify and perform preimplantation genetic testing. Further, their preliminary data show that the test results obtained from the free DNA is consistent with those obtained from the corresponding trophectoderm biopsy. Both the DNA obtained from the spent media and biopsy were tested using array comparative genomic hybridization.