Genetic testing in couples undergoing assisted reproduction technique protocols

Expert Opin Med Diagn. 2009 Sep;3(5):571-83. doi: 10.1517/17530050902970986. Epub 2009 Jul 29.

Abstract

Background: An increasing number of couples undergo assisted reproduction techniques (ART) to generate a child, with the risk of the transmission to the offspring of a genetic defect underlying the condition of infertility.

Objective: To review the most common genetic causes of infertility and identify the appropriate genetic testing to be carried out to reduce the risk of genetic defect in the offspring.

Method: Review of the literature in the field.

Results/conclusion: Cytogenetic investigation and screening of the CFTR gene are the only genetics testing suggested in all the couples undergoing ART; other tests should be performed only in selected cases.