Preimplantation genetic testing to reduce preterm births in assisted reproductive technology

Abstract

The 10% rate of preterm birth rate worldwide has not been proved amenable to reduction. Avoiding multiple embryo transfer in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) using in vitro fertilization is one unassailable method. Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to select only a single euploid embryo for transfer is one unequivocal way, maintaining 50%-60% pregnancy rates while avoiding twins. Contemporary methodology entails trophectoderm biopsy of a 5-6-day blastocyst, and cryopreservation of biopsied embryos while awaiting analysis by next generation sequencing. Embryo biopsy is safe, analytic validity for chromosomal analysis high, and global access to PGT high.

Keywords: ART multiple gestation; Accuracy; Embryo biopsy; Euploid embryo; Safety; Single embryo.