The ReproNAGEN project, led by Dr. Jesús Zabaleta, aimed to analyze, through whole genome sequencing (WGS), the genetic cause or set of causes underlying human infertility issues, specifically those related to poor embryo quality manifested as recurrent implantation failure and repetitive miscarriage.
According to WHO estimates, approximately one in six people worldwide experience fertility issues throughout their reproductive lives. At the same time, work was carried out to detect possible severe genetic diseases in future offspring in order to offer the most efficient therapeutic strategy.
The most innovative part of the project addressed the whole genome sequencing of embryos to achieve greater efficiency in assisted reproduction treatments.
In total, 264 genomes from 132 couples and nearly 160 embryos were studied. The results allow for a better understanding of why some embryos do not thrive and open the door to improving assisted reproduction techniques.
Personal and reproductive risk genetic variants were also identified, helping to prevent serious genetic diseases in the offspring.
The project is currently under development and has been driven by Navarrabiomed, the HUN, and NNBi, with support from the Government of Navarra.