Artificial gametes and preimplantation testing Flashcards
In vitro gametogenesis
aims to recreate germ cell development in vitro using pluripotent stem cells, including induced PSCs from somatic cells
What does IVG hold the potential for?
understanding germ cell development
preserving endangered species
new possibilities in medicine
What does spermatogonial stem cell induction rely on?
faithful regulation of DNA methylation
What is preimplantation genetic testing?
technique used to identify genetic defects in embryos created through in vitro fertilization (IVF)
What can PGT be used to test for?
monogenic disorders
chromosomal disorders
Monogenic disorders
caused by a mutation in a single gene
CF, Huntington’s, sickle cell anemia
Chromosomal disorders
caused by an abnormality in the number or structure of chromosomes
down syndrome, turner syndrome
What are the steps of PGT?
ovulation induction
egg retrieval
fertilization
biopsy
genetic testing
embryo transfer
Who is PGT available to?
couples who have a higher than 10% risk of having a child with a serious genetic disorder
criteria variable + depend on where you live
only available for monogenic disorders
Ethical considerations for PGT
raises concerns about the potential for genetic discrimination.
discarding of embryos that are not free of genetic abnormalities raises concerns about the moral status of embryos
Genes currently screened on the NHS
cystic fibrosis
duchenne muscular dystrophy
huntington’s disease
myotonic dystrophy
sickle cell anemia
Combining PGT and IVG
selection of complex traits such as athletic performance
ACTN3, ACE + BDKRB2 genes
could lead to the commodification of children + exacerbate societal pressures
Total fertility rate
statistical average of the number of children a woman would have in her lifetime if current birth rates remained constant throughout her childbearing years
Replacement rate
a TFR of roughly 2.1 children per woman
generation has just enough children to replace itself assuming no net migration
How does TFR predict country populations?
below 2.1- shrinking population
above 2.1- growth
