Biopsy

Purpose Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) has proven to be a useful reproductive option for carriers of some chromosome rearrangements. The data presented in this study compares the impact of one versus two blastomere biopsy on the likelihood of achieving a PGD result, as well as the effect on subsequent embryo development and clinical outcomes. Methods IVF-PGD couples had either one or two blastomeres biopsied from all embryos with ≥7 blastomeres on day 3 post oocyte collection. These blastomeres were assessed for the specific chromosome rearrangement using Fluorescent In-situ Hybridisation (FISH). Further embryo development was monitored on days 4 and 5. Clinical outcomes were assessed retrospectively. Results The data shows that statistically more embryos achieved a PGD result following two blastomere biopsy, compared with one blastomere biopsy (92 % versus 88 %, respectively). Furthermore it was found that embryo development and clinical outcomes were similar between the two biopsy groups. Conclusions Based on this analysis it appears that the biopsy of two blastomeres from embryos with ≥7 blastomeres on day 3 is a valid and successful approach for couples presenting for IVF-PGD for a chromosome rearrangement.

BACKGROUND. Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most prevalent malignancy among males, characterized by high mortality rates. Aberrant DNA methylation in promoters of tumor suppressor genes is an early and frequent event during prostate carcinogenesis. Modern techniques allow a sensitive detection of DNA methylation biomarkers in bodily fluids from cancer patients offering a noninvasive tool for PCa monitoring. Our study aimed at the analysis of DNA methylation in urine sediments from PCa patients for the selection of most informative noninvasive biomarkers. MATERIAL AND METHODS. Real-time methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction was used for the detection of methylated RASSF1, RARB, and GSTP1 genes in catheterized urine specimens from 34 patients with biopsy-proven early or medium stage PCa. RESULTS. At least one gene was methylated in urine sediments from 28 cases with PCa, with a sensitivity of the test reaching 82%. RASSF1 was methylated in 71% (24 of 34), RARB in 44% (15 ...