What are the genetic risks of IVF?
IVF is a kind of baby obtained by in vitro fertilization through assisted reproductive technology. Although IVF technology has made great achievements in solving the problem of infertility, because of the operation and selection of human genes, IVF will also carry certain risks of genetic diseases. In the following, we will elaborate on the possible genetic disease risks of IVF from four aspects.
1. Single gene genetic disease risk
Single gene genetic disease is a genetic disease caused by single gene mutation. In the process of IVF, parents can detect whether they carry some common single gene genetic disease mutations through gene screening. If one or both of them carry these mutations, IVF may also carry genetic mutations of the disease.
For example, cystic fibrosis is a common single gene genetic disease. If one or both parents carry the cystic fibrosis mutation gene, their test tube babies may also suffer from the disease. Therefore, before IVF, parents need to receive gene counseling and testing to know whether they carry these mutant genes.
In addition, the technology of IVF sex selection may also increase the risk of some monogenic genetic diseases. For example, in gender selection, if you mainly pursue a certain gender, you may miss the screening of hidden single gene genetic diseases. At this time, IVF may carry a single gene genetic disease passed on to the offspring.
2. Risk of complex genetic diseases
Complex genetic diseases are caused by multiple genes and environmental factors. The occurrence of such diseases depends not only on the mutation of a single gene, but also on the environment, lifestyle, genetic background and other factors.
For example, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, asthma, etc. are all complex genetic diseases. Although IVF can detect some gene variations related to these diseases through gene screening, there is no absolute method to predict and avoid these complex genetic diseases. Therefore, IVF may still face the risk of these diseases.
3. Genetic problems caused by technical operation
In the process of IVF, human operation may also cause genetic problems. For example, embryo chromosome abnormalities may occur during in vitro fertilization. This abnormality also occurs in natural pregnancy, but the incidence is low. However, because IVF requires multiple implantation, the risk of embryo chromosome abnormalities is relatively increased.
In addition, embryo selection during embryo implantation may also lead to genetic problems. In some cases, if the embryo carries out gene testing and selection, it is possible to select some mutation gene carriers, thus increasing the risk of genetic diseases.
4. Legal and ethical issues
IVF technology involves many legal and moral issues. Different countries and regions have different legal provisions and restrictions on IVF. Some countries prohibit the selection of gender and gene screening to prevent situations that run counter to normal human development and ethical principles.
In addition, IVF technology has also triggered some moral disputes. One of the controversies is whether genetic screening should be carried out. Some people believe that genetic screening can avoid serious genetic diseases and improve the success rate of fertility. But others believe that this kind of screening deprives the autonomy and dignity of life.
summary
The development of IVF technology has brought hope to many infertile couples. However, IVF still has certain risks of genetic diseases, including single gene genetic diseases, complex genetic diseases, genetic problems caused by technical operations, and legal and moral issues involved. Therefore, before IVF, parents need to fully understand and consider these risks, cooperate with professional doctors and make wise decisions.
