Preimplantation Diagnosis of Human Genetic Disease

The advent of human in vitro fertilization and developments in molecular science have made it possible to diagnose genetic disease in fetuses at a very early stage of development. This book presents the most recent advances and developments in this new area of applied research. Experts in the field describe and discuss the latest technology, from micromanipulation of single cells to sophisticated methods of DNA analysis. The book considers the implications of this new technology for fetal screening and the prevention of genetic disease, as well as for the control and manipulation of the normal sex ratio. It draws together current knowledge and discusses the new clinical opportunities for disease prevention. The book begins with an overview of the genetics of some common inherited diseases and the historical development of prenatal screening. It then draws together the most recent advances in preimplantation diagnostic techniques, including tissue assays for specific genetic disorders, and methods for typing and separating spermatozoa. The practical aspects of the new methodologies are considered, along with the potential for developing safer, more reliable and less invasive methods of diagnosis. The ethical and legal implications of this diagnostic approach are also discussed.Edwards, Robert G. is the author of 'Preimplantation Diagnosis of Human Genetic Disease' with ISBN 9780521404259 and ISBN 0521404258.