Q. In the context of recent advances of human reproductive technology, “Pronuclear Transfer” is used for

Explanation:

Pronuclear Transfer: Preventing Transmission of Mitochondrial Diseases

Pronuclear transfer is a technique used in the context of mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT). This innovative approach is designed to prevent the transmission of mitochondrial diseases from mother to child. Mitochondrial diseases are a group of disorders caused by dysfunctional mitochondria, the energy-producing structures within cells. These diseases are maternally inherited because the mitochondria in the offspring come exclusively from the mother’s egg.

The Process of Pronuclear Transfer

The process of pronuclear transfer involves fertilizing both the donor’s egg and the mother’s egg with the father’s sperm. Before these fertilized eggs begin the process of dividing into early-stage embryos, each has a pronucleus containing the genetic material from the mother and the father. In pronuclear transfer, the pronuclei from the parents’ fertilized egg are transferred into the donor egg, which has had its own pronuclei removed but still contains healthy mitochondria. This way, the resulting embryo has nuclear DNA from its parents but mitochondrial DNA from the donor, effectively bypassing the risk of inheriting mitochondrial diseases.

Advancements in Reproductive Technology

This technique represents a significant advance in reproductive technology, offering hope to families affected by mitochondrial disorders. It allows for the birth of genetically related children to the intended parents, with the critical difference being the source of healthy mitochondria.