Pronuclear Transfer
Pronunciation: pro-NEW-klee-ar
An experimental technique involving transfer of pronuclei to prevent mitochondrial disease transmission.
Full Definition
Pronuclear transfer is a form of mitochondrial replacement therapy where the male and female pronuclei from a fertilized egg are transferred into an enucleated donor egg with healthy mitochondria. This technique, along with spindle transfer, aims to prevent the transmission of severe mitochondrial diseases from mother to child while allowing the couple to have a genetically related child. The resulting embryo contains nuclear DNA from both parents but mitochondrial DNA from the donor, leading to the colloquial term 'three-parent babies.'
Usage
Usage note: This procedure is highly regulated and not available in all jurisdictions. Specify legal status when discussing.
In Context
- "Pronuclear transfer was considered for the patient with Leigh syndrome in her family history." — Genetic counseling note
- "Ethical approval for pronuclear transfer research was granted by the institutional review board." — Research protocol