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Updated: May 8, 2026
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Semiconductor Sequencing for Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy
Published on: August 25, 2019
Selecting the optimal time to perform biopsy for preimplantation genetic testing
Katherine L Scott1, Kathleen H Hong, Richard T Scott
1Atlantic Reproductive Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA.
Fertility and Sterility
|September 3, 2013
Summary
Trophectoderm biopsy at the blastocyst stage is currently the optimal method for preimplantation genetic testing. This approach minimizes harm to embryos, ensuring successful IVF outcomes even with necessary vitrification for genetic analysis.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Genetics
- Embryology
Background:
- Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) requires DNA from oocytes or embryos.
- Current biopsy methods include polar body, cleavage-stage blastomere, and trophectoderm biopsy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the optimal timing and method for embryonic biopsy in PGT.
- To compare the efficacy and impact of different biopsy techniques on embryo viability and diagnostic accuracy.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on polar body, blastomere, and trophectoderm biopsy techniques.
- Analysis of diagnostic accuracy, impact on embryo development, and clinical outcomes associated with each method.
Main Results:
- Polar body biopsy has limitations in aneuploidy detection and predictive value.
- Blastomere biopsy at the cleavage stage can be detrimental to embryo development.
- Trophectoderm biopsy at the blastocyst stage is effective and does not adversely affect embryos, though it may necessitate vitrification.
Conclusions:
- Trophectoderm biopsy at the blastocyst stage is the preferred method for PGT.
- This approach maintains excellent clinical outcomes, comparable to fresh IVF cycles, even when vitrification is required for genetic analysis.
