Gene Matching

Gene matching helps protect your future child from inheriting certain genetic conditions. It works by comparing the genes of the prospective mother with those of the selected sperm donor to determine whether they both carry mutations in the same genes.

This procedure applies both in cases where donor oocytes are used as well as in cases where the prospective mother’s oocytes are used, in order to ensure that they are not carriers of the same recessive mutations before conception.

As a result, the risk of the future child inheriting genetic diseases is minimized.

Sperm Donor Gene Matching - HLA Testing
Laboratory Genetic Testing - Sperm Bank

Gene Matching Procedure

The first step is for the prospective mother to undergo a blood test. This test analyzes hundreds of genes for recessive diseases, such as thalassemia, cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs syndrome, spinal muscular atrophy, and more. The results indicate whether the prospective mother is a carrier of any disease—meaning she does not have the disease herself but could pass it on to her child.

The same analysis is performed for the donor. The genetic profiles of the recipient and the donor are then compared:

  • Both carriers of the same disease: This combination is rejected, as there is a 25% chance the child could inherit the condition.
  • Only one carrier: The combination is considered acceptable.

The Gene Matching service can also be used to compare genetic material with that of an egg donor or between partners, whether for natural conception or IVF.

Benefits of genetic matching

What are the benefits for recipients?

  • The risk of the child having a genetic disease is reduced.
  • Donor selection is specific for the recipient based on her genetic profile.
  • Offers insight into any recessive genes the child may inherit

Screening for more than 300 diseases, including Phenylketonuria, Leiden thrombophilia (factor V), G6PD deficiency (hemolytic anemia), Tay–Sachs disease, X-linked intellectual disability, X-linked retinitis pigmentosa, and many others.

Does genetic matching completely eliminate the risk of disease?

Genetic testing can significantly reduce the risk of a child inheriting a hereditary disease, but it cannot eliminate it entirely. While compatibility testing is performed between the recipient and the donor for known recessive genetic conditions, it is not possible to detect ALL potential mutations. Some genes may not be tested, and unknown or spontaneous mutations can occur, so a small risk will always remain.

Digital Gene Matching - Sperm Bank
Single Gene Compatibility Testing - Sperm Bank

Do you already know that you are a carrier of a single-gene disorder?

Single Gene Matching is designed for you.

If you or your family members have a known genetic condition, or if you are already aware that you are a carrier, this service allows you to reduce the chance of passing it on to your child by performing a compatibility test with a donor.

To find a genetically compatible donor, you first need to determine which conditions you are a carrier for. Based on this information, donors who do not carry the same gene mutations are selected, minimizing the risk of transmission.

Single Gene Matching is also useful if you already know you are a carrier of a recessive genetic disease and want to ensure that your partner is not a carrier of a mutation in the same gene.