Pacific Reproductive Center's new aCGH lab delivers fresh hope for would-be moms at risk of miscarriages & birth defects

LOS ANGELES, May 9, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Pacific Reproductive Center (PRC), a southern California fertility medical practice founded in 1996, announced today that it is the first private in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinic nationally to open an on-site laboratory with breakthrough technology – microarray comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) – for analyzing human embryo chromosomes within 24 hours.

The technology brings unprecedented levels of new hope for intended parents facing chronic infertility, repeated miscarriages, and increased risk of birth defects.

Now scientists at PRC will be able to analyze all 23 chromosomes in an embryo within 24 hours. Historically, geneticists have had success in locating some genetic abnormalities in embryos but not in all chromosomes. 

"This is one of the most significant advancements I've seen in my career," said Dr. Rifaat Salem, PRC founder, celebrating his 20th year in practice in southern California.  "With aCGH, we can dramatically increase the odds of patients delivering healthy babies."

All cells contain chromosomes arranged in 23 pairs. An embryo with either an extra or a missing chromosome can lead to a miscarriage or a birth defect such as Down Syndrome, the result of an extra copy of chromosome 21.

When used in conjunction with IVF, the process allows scientists to biopsy each embryo created in the laboratory and analyze a single embryonic cell for chromosomal health and gender. Then, with overnight aCGH analysis, a fertility specialist can choose the healthiest fresh, non-frozen embryo for transfer to the mother's uterus.

"The advantages of overnight results to patients include a reduction in treatment costs, less anxiety due to a shortened waiting period, and a better chance of a successful pregnancy," Dr. Salem said. "The move is part of our long tradition and commitment to giving couples the best chances of having healthy babies."

About Pacific Reproductive Center

Founded in 1996, Pacific Reproductive Center is Southern California's leading team of advanced and personalized assisted reproductive specialists. PRC's pregnancy success rates consistently rank among the highest in the nation. PRC's physicians and scientists offer state-of-the-art care in four PRC clinics, which include fully licensed surgical facilities and laboratories. For more information, visit http://www.pacificreproductivecenter.com.

SOURCE Pacific Reproductive Center

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