In the context of recent advances in human reproductive technology, "Pronuclear Transfer" is used for

fertilization of egg in vitro by the donor sperm

genetic modification of sperm producing cells

development of stem cells into functional embryos

prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring

APEDIA

UPSC Prelims

2020 • 04 Oct, 2020 • Paper-1

In the context of recent advances in human reproductive technology, "Pronuclear Transfer" is used for

Correct Answer

prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring

Understanding Mitochondria: Mitochondria are the 'powerhouses' of the cell, carrying their own DNA (mtDNA). Crucially, a child inherits mitochondria exclusively......

💡 Analysis & Explanation

Understanding Mitochondria ▼

Mitochondria are the 'powerhouses' of the cell, carrying their own DNA (mtDNA). Crucially, a child inherits mitochondria exclusively from the mother.

The Genetic Defect ▼

If a mother carries mutations in her mitochondrial DNA, these defects are passed on to the offspring, leading to severe and often fatal mitochondrial diseases.

Mechanism of Pronuclear Transfer ▼

This advanced IVF technique involves fertilizing both the mother's egg and a healthy donor's egg with the father's sperm. Before they divide, the pronuclei (containing the nuclear DNA) from the mother's egg are extracted and inserted into the donor's enucleated egg (which contains healthy mitochondria).

Conclusion ▼

Thus, Pronuclear Transfer (often creating a 'three-parent baby') is specifically designed to prevent the maternal transmission of mitochondrial diseases to the child.

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In the context of recent advances in human reproductive technology, "Pronuclear Transfer" is used for