Hungarian Baby Avoids Genetic Disease

Doctors at Semmelweis University in Hungary delivered a healthy baby boy after screening embryos for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The infant was conceived through in vitro fertilization. This allowed physicians to test the embryos for the genetic disease before implantation.

Preimplantation genetic testing identifies embryos with known genetic diseases. It offers a path forward for couples at risk of passing on these conditions. SMA causes progressive muscle weakness and can be fatal in early childhood.

The procedure isn’t a cure, and it doesn’t eliminate all genetic risks. It requires specialized equipment and expertise. Further research may expand the range of diseases detectable through this method, offering more families options.