According to data from the World Health Organization, over 15% of couples face infertility issues. Despite significant progress in treating infertility thanks to modern medicine, in vitro fertilization (IVF) has opened the door to parenthood for millions of people. Nevertheless, despite its advantages, questions have arisen regarding the long-term health of children born through IVF.
Large-scale studies have revealed that these children may have an increased risk of developing certain health problems in the future. A recent study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology investigated whether stress applied to the embryo during IVF could alter the movement of certain DNA within the genome, thereby increasing the likelihood of long-term health issues in offspring.
The study found that children conceived naturally had a lower overall amount of LINE-1 DNA in their genome compared to children conceived via IVF. Typically, DNA remains in fixed locations, but LINE-1 is part of elements capable of changing the human genome. These so-called 'jumping genes' can create copies of themselves and move them to new locations.
Scientifically, jumping genes are known as transposons. These are fragments of DNA capable of moving or copying themselves in different parts of our genome. Approximately 45–50% of human DNA consists of these jumping genes, and their influence can be both positive and negative. They aid in the changes and development of the organism, promoting the emergence of new traits. However, if these DNA fragments end up in the wrong place, they can block normal gene function, causing mutations and potentially leading to various hereditary diseases.
There is a risk that during the IVF procedure, these jumping genes might move to undesirable locations, increasing the probability of diseases in newborns. The analysis conducted by scientists compared the disease risk in naturally conceived children versus those born through IVF. It was found that children conceived via IVF showed a higher concentration of genes associated with the development of metabolic diseases, heart diseases, neuropsychiatric disorders, and cancer. The authors emphasize, however, that this is only a preliminary study and does not mean that children born through IVF will necessarily face these problems.
Despite this, IVF remains an important option for couples struggling with infertility. IVF is a medical procedure used for couples who cannot conceive naturally, and it is also referred to as 'test-tube baby' procedure. In recent years, the number of couples seeking IVF services has significantly increased in India, indicating a growing problem of infertility and an increase in the number of people resorting to IVF assistance.