Matanalysis of the preimplantatory diagnosis

Abstract

During the last years, scientists have been perfecting a genetic diagnostic technique for preimplantatory embryos. This technique has been developed in the "in vitro" fertilization and embryo transfer programs to meet the demand of couple’s whit a high probability of transmitting their offspring any genetic sickness. What it is intended whit this technique is to avoid births of affected offspring form couples suffering Mendel's genetic sickness linked to an only gene or to the gender. According to their promoters, this technique is an alternative to the pre-natal diagnosis. We have revised the development of this technique, and we have confirmed that, even though it might be legal in the future, nowadays it has an eugenic connotation, as it sorts out embryos destroying some on the grounds of gender or a sickness they are suffering.