Question
What Are the Characteristics of Third-Generation Test Tube Babies?
Answer
The third-generation in vitro fertilization technique, also known as Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD), is a method used for couples at risk of genetic diseases to undergo genetic testing on embryos before implantation, in order to screen out embryos without genetic diseases for transfer. This technology is a way for couples with chromosomal abnormalities to have healthy children. For example, carriers of balanced chromosomal translocations may not have symptoms themselves but have a higher risk of passing on chromosomal abnormalities to their children. Through PGD, chromosomal abnormalities can be detected at the embryonic stage, allowing for the selection of normal embryos for transfer and reducing the risk of miscarriage and giving birth to malformed children.