CAR offers preimplantation genetic diagnosis, or PGD. Recently developed, this technique involves taking a single cell from a newly developing embryo and analyzing its genetic makeup. This test helps to find chromosomal and genetic disorders early. It is an excellent opportunity for couples who are at risk for transmitting genetic disease to their children.

PGD must be done in conjunction with in vitro fertilization. PGD helps the Center for Assisted Reproduction embryologists to choose the healthiest embryos for implantation, thereby increasing the chance of successful pregnancy and reducing the chance of genetic problems in the baby.

PGD is performed in the lab during the IVF process. After the egg and sperm are mixed in the lab, the resultant embryos are allowed to grow for several days. A single cell is then extracted from each embryo and its genetic makeup is analyzed.

PGD can screen for genetic abnormalities that can cause miscarriage or that may prevent pregnancy from occurring while also checking for certain genetic diseases, such as Down's Syndrome. It is a powerful new technology that is only available at cutting-edge facilities like the Center for Assisted Reproduction.

Pictured above is fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). FISH is a highly specialized PGD technique that uses synthetic DNA segments that have special fluorescent markers attached to them. If the FISH probe tags a genetic target in a chromosome under study, these segments bind to it and light up. The bright color can signal a chromosomal abnormality.

Contact CAR for more information regarding having PGD, or preimplantation genetic diagnosis, in the Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas area.