According to recent studies, assisted reproduction technologies leave genetic marks on the future baby, but only temporarily.
The Murdoch Children's Research Institute led the research in 2016 and 2017. It showed that the events occurring during ovarian stimulation, the manipulation of the embryo, and all the hormones used for the treatment could impact the baby's epigenetics. According to the Cambridge dictionary, epigenetics is a branch of genetics that studies the chemical reactions that turn genes on and off.
However, these effects are temporary and disappear in adulthood. Other factors such as diet can impact the epigenetics of the future baby.
What was the purpose of the study?
The study took place to see if assisted reproduction technology could somehow affect babies born from it. Luckily, scientists' results are not alarming because the genetic marks disappear once the baby has grown up.
How was the study conducted?
The researchers created two groups. The first one was composed of 158 people born from assisted procreation technology and aged between 22 and 35 years old. The second group consisted of 75 people conceived naturally. This study was specific for being conducted at birth and once in adulthood on the same individuals. This information is essential because older studies have shown some genetic changes in babies but have never studied them again once they were older.
Why is this study important?
The study shows that assisted reproductive technology is almost harmless to the genetics of the baby. Scientists underline the fact that environmental conditions have a more significant impact on the baby's health. That is why parents need to take care of their bodies while using assisted procreation technology.
At Unica, our team is always present to help you and guide you in any phase of your treatment to fulfil your dream of having a baby!
