GRS2002 - Assisted reproductive and genetic technologies

Leader: Dr Sally Catt

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

Technologies used for the treatment of human infertility and prenatal diagnosis of familial genetic disorders are studied. Techniques involved in the handling and maturation of human gametes are also covered. These include micromanipulation, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), chromosome or genetic diagnosis (embryo biopsy for FISH, or polymerase chain reaction amplification of genomic DNA), cell and tissue cryobiology and transplantation. Assessment of embryo viability, especially regarding late preimplantation stages of development and laboratory quality assurance are also part of this unit.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will:
1. understand the clinical and laboratory techniques required for successful IVF, the reasons for the methods used, and why quality assurance is a premium for clinical IVF services; 2. comprehend the limitations of the procedures applied in human infertility and genetic diagnosis; 3. understand and have experienced micromanipulation, the handling of embryos (animal) and their cryopreservation, and have used the FISH technique to identify chromosomes in single cells; 4. have learned about ethics and the laws governing IVF, and assessed new articles on IVF; 5. have worked together to solve a problem and presented their solution as a poster; 6. be familiar with evaluating and communicating a critical review of contemporary scientific research papers.

Assessment

Open-book written exam (1.5 hrs): 50%
Written report on quality assurance in an IVF program: 25%
Preparation of poster and oral poster presentation: 25%

Contact hours

This unit is held over 6 weeks in second semester. Students are required to attend all lectures, interactive sessions, practical sessions and a site visit to Monash IVF.