Development of preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic diseases in China

Abstract

Preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic diseases (PGT-M) can effectively interrupt the transmission of genetic diseases from parents to the offspring before pregnancy. In China, there are over ten million individuals afflicted with monogenic disorders. This literature review summarizes the development of PGT-M in China for the past 24 years, covering the general steps such as the indications and contraindications, genetic and reproductive counselling, biopsy methods, detecting techniques and strategies during PGT-M application in China. The ethical considerations of PGT-M are also be emphasized, including sexual selection, transferring for mosaic embryos, the three-parent baby, and the different opinions for serious adult-onset conditions. Some key policies of the Chinese government for the application of PGT-M are also considered. Methods for regulation of this technique, as well as specific management to increase the accuracy and reliability of PGT-M, are regarded as priority issues in China. The third-generation sequencing and variants testing from RNA level, and non-invasive preimplantation genetic testing using blastocoel fluid and free DNA particles within spent blastocyst medium might be potential techniques and strategies for PGT-M in future.