Tuesday 11 November 2008
Researching the environment in which the embryo develops
|
|
|
New research reveals a future where dietary supplements increase women’s fertility
IVF success is dependent on the ability to identify the most viable embryos for implantation. Today the most effective method of doing this is by genetic analysis which requires the invasive removal of cells from an embryo.
Scientists working in collaboration with Oxford Fertility Unit and sponsored by Gema Diagnostics, have identified a new non-invasive approach in identifying the viability of embryos. They have identified 729 genes that indicate chromosome problems; these can be looked for in the cells surrounding the egg, eliminating the need to penetrate the embryo.
This research reveals the role and importance of the cells surrounding the embryo and the environment in which the egg develops. The researchers believe that these cells can influence chromosome abnormalities leading to Down syndrome and miscarriage and that, in the future, dietary supplements will increase or extend a woman’s fertility.
|
|
|
|