In the news

The UK Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) recently issued a brief statement to the effect that it is "minded to issue licences" to clinics wishing to incorporate aneuploidy screening into their IVF service. Embryos created by IVF would be screened to check that they had the normal number of chromosomes; embryos with an abnormal chromosome complement (aneuploid embryos) usually fail to implant or fail to develop normally, leading to IVF failure or recurrent miscarriage in some women. Screening could improve the rate of successful IVF treatment in women who are at higher than normal risk of producing aneuploid embryos because of a genetic condition or advanced maternal age. Two IVF clinics in the UK have indicated that they are interested in offering aneuploidy screening. The HFEA has not yet issued any licences, explaining that, as the technique is still very new, stringent inspection of clinics, and monitoring of their use of the procedure, are essential.