PGT-A, PGD, blastocyst biopy–Dr. Ken Moghadam

Our embryologists perform fascinating work every day in our #ivf laboratory at Austin Fertility Institute! For our families considering PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy) this video briefly depicts a blastocyst that is about to undergo biopsy. A blastocyst is a spherical embryo (fertilized egg) consisting of about 100-150 cells in which different layers have formed. The inner cell mass contains a cluster of cells that will form the future fetus. The outer cell layer, known as the trophoectoderm, will become the future placenta; this is where the actual biopsied cells are taken from.

This particular couple was having their embryos screened for a single gene disorder. When the genetic parents are known to be carriers for a specific genetic disease (e.g. sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis) the process is termed PGD or Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis. We discuss carrier screening, genetic disease screening and more in our one-on-one consultations with Dr. M for our families undergoing IVF.