Understanding Next Generation Sequencing: How NGS Technology Works?
The most concerning factor that couples keep getting stressed over is the transfer of genetic disorder from parents to child. And with the latest technological advancements in the medical field, there are different tests which can be helpful in diagnosing if the embryos have any genetic disorders.
The technology that is advocated for the genetic tests is NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) technology which analyzes DNA fragments for testing if there are any rare, hereditary or complex conditions diagnosed in the embryo. This technology helps in determining genetic disorders and further can help make fertility treatments successful. Though this technology is used for multiple treatments, it has at the same time helped in revolutionizing fertility treatments as well.
This technology is used widely across the world. Unlike the traditional method of genetic sequencing which selects only a single fragment but in next generation sequencing millions of fragments can be tested for genetic testing and can help determine if there is any risk diagnosed in the embryo.
What is Next Generation Sequencing?
Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) is a modern genetic testing technology which helps analyze quickly DNA or RNA sequences in a large volumes. As compared to the method used earlier which are the traditional sequencing methods, Next Generation Sequencing can help in examining millions of genetic fragments simultaneously, making it faster, more accurate, and more affordable.
NGS is mostly used in medical fields such as fertility treatment, cancer diagnosis, genetic disorder screening, and medicine prescribed on patient’s diagnosis. In IVF, it is mostly used during the procedure of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to help detect chromosomal abnormalities embryos before implantation.
How Next Generation Sequencing Works
- DNA or RNA samples collected for diagnosis.
- Then the genetic material is fragmented into smaller pieces.
- These fragments are then sequenced in parallel using high technology.
- Advanced software analyzes the genetic data to detect mutations or abnormalities.
Benefits of NGS
- Assures high accuracy & sensitivity
- Faster and accurate results compared to conventional methods
- Ability to examine multiple genes at once
- Helps in improving embryo selection for IVF
- Supports in early detection of genetic conditions
Uses of Next Generation Sequencing
- The Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) in IVF.
- Cancer genomics which differentiates between tumor and normal cells.
- Diagnosis for rare diseases if any
- Test called Prenatal genetic screening
- Test for Infectious disease
- Personalized medicine and therapies suggested on the basis of diagnosis.
How Does Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Improve IVF Success Rates?
Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) is the techonology which helps in improving IVF success rates by diagnosing fertility specialists to identify genetically only the healthy embryos prior to implantation. The main reason to use this technique is during Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) to screen embryos for chromosomal abnormalities that may reduce the chances of pregnancy.
How NGS Helps in IVF
Detects Chromosomal Abnormalities
NGS can help in accurately identifying the embryos with, if any missing or extra chromosomes (aneuploidy). Embryos with normal chromosome numbers more likely to implant successfully and develop into healthy pregnancy.
Improves Embryo Selection
Instead of selection of embryos relying only on the appearance under a microscope, NGS allows doctors to choose embryos that are of better genetic health, increasing implantation potential.
Reduces Risk of Miscarriage
There are multiple instances where miscarriages occur because of chromosomal abnormalities in embryo. By transferring genetically normal embryos NGS lower miscarriage risk.
Increases Implantation Rates
Only the healthy embryos are identified through NGS techinque they mostly have higher implantation success, especially in women with a recurrent IVF failures advanced maternal age.
Supports Single Embryo Transfer
Since NGS helps identify high-quality embryos clinics can confidently transfer a single embryo while maintaining strong pregnancy chances reducing the risk of multiple pregnancies.
Helps Older Women Undergoing IVF
There is a higher possibility in women above 35 are more likely produce embryos with chromosomal abnormalities. NGS can help identify viable embryos improving pregnancy outcomes this age group.
Reduces Failed IVF Cycles
By avoiding transfer genetically abnormal embryos NGS may reduce unsuccessful IVF attempts and improve overall treatment efficiency.
Common Situations Where NGS Is Recommended
- If there is repeated IVF failure
- Recurrent miscarriages
- Latest maternal age
- If diagnosed severe male infertility
- History of genetic disorders
- If chromosomal abnormalities prior
Does NGS Guarantee Pregnancy?
It does not assure a guaranteed successful pregnancy. While NGS improves embryo selection and increases the chances of implantation & live birth, IVF success depends on the following factors:
- Maternal advanced age
- Quality of egg and sperm
- Health of uterus
- Lifestyle factors
- IVF lab quality
NGS is considered a valuable tool in modern fertility treatment because it helps doctors make more informed embryo selection decisions, which can improve the overall success rate of IVF.
Cost of Next Generation Sequencing in India
The cost is an impotant part while planning for any treatment. NGS techonology makes the whole procedure a lot more easier as compared to other traditional procedure. So, How much does NGS testing cost in India, and what factors influence the overall pricing of the procedure?
| NGS Testing Component in IVF | Estimated Cost in India (INR) | What It Includes |
|---|---|---|
| NGS Testing for 1 Embryo | ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 | Genetic screening of a single embryo |
| NGS Testing for 4–6 Embryos | ₹60,000 – ₹1,20,000 | Common package offered with IVF cycles |
| Embryo Biopsy Charges | ₹20,000 – ₹40,000 | Removal of cells from embryos for testing |
| Blastocyst Culture | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 | Growing embryos to Day 5/6 before biopsy |
| Embryo Freezing (Cryopreservation) | ₹15,000 – ₹30,000 | Freezing embryos after testing |
| Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) | ₹30,000 – ₹60,000 | Transfer of genetically tested embryo |
| Complete IVF + NGS Cycle | ₹2,50,000 – ₹4,50,000 | IVF treatment combined with NGS testing |
| Donor Egg IVF with NGS | ₹4,00,000 – ₹6,50,000 | Donor egg IVF cycle including genetic testing |
Factors Influencing the Cost of NGS Testing in India
Number of Embryos Tested
The cost highly depends the number of embryos sent for genetic screening, the higher the number of embryos the more is the total NGS cost.
Type of Genetic Screening Performed
Different cost depending on what tests you are going for, if the test checks for chromosomal abnormalities, inherited genetic disorders, or both.
IVF Clinic and Laboratory Standards
Advanced fertility centres with modern and well-equipped embryology labs and experienced and highly-skilled specialists are more likely to charge a higher price.
Embryo Biopsy Charges
NGS needs embryo biopsy, and the expert specialists involved can significantly affect pricing.
Use of Advanced IVF Techniques
The procedures used such as the ICSI, assisted hatching, or blastocyst culture may increase the overall expense.
Embryo Freezing and Storage
As the embryos are often frozen once biopsy is done, fees such as cryopreservation and storage add to the cost.
Imported vs. Domestic Testing Technology
Clinics using internationally partnered genetic laboratories or imported technology may have higher charges.
Location of the Fertility Centre
Ther are cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore generally charge higher than smaller cities.
Doctor’s Expertise and Success Rates
Clinics with reputed fertility specialists and higher IVF success rates may have premium pricing.
Additional Genetic Counselling
Pre-test and post-test counselling sessions can also contribute to the total cost.
Cost of NGS Testing Across Different Countries Worldwide
| Country | Estimated NGS Cost (USD) | Estimated NGS Cost (Local Currency) |
|---|---|---|
| India | $800 – $2,000 | ₹65,000 – ₹1,70,000 |
| Thailand | $2,000 – $4,500 | THB 70,000 – 160,000 |
| Turkey | $1,500 – $3,500 | TRY 48,000 – 112,000 |
| Georgia | $1,500 – $3,000 | GEL 4,000 – 8,000 |
| USA | $3,000 – $7,000 | USD 3,000 – 7,000 |
| UK | $2,500 – $5,000 | GBP 2,000 – 4,000 |
Procedure of NGS Testing in IVF
Ovarian Stimulation
The IVF process starts with the use of hormonal medications that stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. A regular ultrasound scans and blood tests are performed for checking the monitor follicle growth and hormone levels.
Egg Retrieval
Once the eggs mature are collected through a minor surgical procedure called egg retrieval. Under ultrasound guidance & mild sedation the fertility specialist removes the eggs from the ovaries.
Fertilisation of Eggs
The retrieved eggs are fertilised with sperm in the laboratory by advocating conventional IVF or ICSI techniques. The fertilised eggs are then start developing into embryos under controlled laboratory conditions.
Embryo Culture to Blastocyst Stage
The embryos carefully monitored and cultured for around 5-6 days until they reach the blastocyst stage. This stage provides better accuracy genetic testing and embryo selection.
Embryo Biopsy
A few cells are gently removed from the outer layer the blastocyst during a process called embryo biopsy. The procedure performed by skilled embryologists without damaging the embryo’s developmental potential.
Freezing of Embryos
After biopsy, the embryos are frozen through vitrification while genetic analysis is carried out. Freezing preserves embryo quality until NGS results become available for embryo selection.
Genetic Analysis Through NGS
The biopsied cells are sent to a specialised genetics laboratory for Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). The technology analyses chromosomes and detects abnormalities helping identify genetically healthy embryos transfer.
Review of Test Results
The fertility specialist and genetic counsellor review NGS findings with the couple. The results help determine which embryos chromosomally normal and most suitable for implantation.
Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
A healthy embryo identified through NGS testing thawed and transferred into the uterus during a Frozen Embryo Transfer cycle. This improves chances of successful implantation and pregnancy.
| Step | Procedure of NGS Testing in IVF | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ovarian Stimulation | Fertility medications are helped to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple number of mature eggs for IVF treatment. |
| 2 | Egg Retrieval | Mature eggs are collected from the ovaries by using a minor surgical procedure performed under sedation. |
| 3 | Fertilisation | Retrieved eggs are then fertilised with sperm in the lab using IVF or ICSI techniques. |
| 4 | Embryo Culture | Fertilised embryos are cultured in the laboratory for 5–6 days until they reach the blastocyst stage. |
| 5 | Embryo Biopsy | A few cells are removed from the outer layer of the blastocyst for the genetic testing purposes. |
| 6 | Embryo Freezing | Biopsied embryos are thenrozen through vitrification while awaiting the NGS test results. |
| 7 | NGS Genetic Analysis | The biopsied cells undergo Next-Generation Sequencing detecting chromosomal or if gather is genetic abnormalities. |
| 8 | Result Evaluation | Fertility specialists are reviewed by the NGS results to identify healthy embryos suitable for implantation. |
| 9 | Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) | A genetically healthy embryo thawed & transferred into the uterus achieve pregnancy. |
How Does NGS Add to the Cost of Fertility Treatments?
- Embryo Biopsy Charges – NGS requires embryo biopsy, where a few number of cells are removed from embryo for the genetic testing. This specialised procedure raises overall treatment cost.
- Advanced Genetic Testing Cost -The biopsied cells analysed using sophisticated sequencing technology help in detecting chromosomal or genetic abnormalities, adding separate laboratory expenses IVF treatment.
- Embryo Freezing Expenses – After the biopsy, embryos usually frozen while awaiting NGS results. This adds cryopreservation and storage charges the fertility treatment bill.
- Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) Cost – Since the embryos are transferred later after testing, patients mostly need a separate Frozen Embryo Transfer cycle, which increases overall expenses.
- Specialised Laboratory Infrastructure – NGS testing requires an environment that suitbable and can help provide accurate results and for that requires, advanced genetic laboratories, high-end equipment, and trained specialists, all of which contribute to higher treatment costs.
- Number of Embryos Tested – The total price increases in the number of embryos undergoing genetic screening as each embryo requires separate analysis.
- Additional IVF Procedures – Procedures like ICSI, blastocyst culture, or assisted hatching may be required before NGS testing later helps increasing treatment costs.
- Clinic Reputation and Expertise – Fertility centres with experienced specialists, advanced technology and higher IVF success rates may charge premium fees NGS-supported treatment.
Traditional Genetic Testing vs. NGS Technology
| Aspect | Traditional Genetic Testing | NGS (Next-Generation Sequencing) Technology |
|---|---|---|
| Testing Method | Techniques such as FISH or basic PCR methods are used for genetic testing | Uses advanced high-tech DNA sequencing technology |
| Accuracy | Lower accuracy in detecting chromosomal abnormalities | Higher accuracy with detailed genetic analysis |
| Number of Chromosomes Analysed | Often examines only selected chromosomes | Can analyse all 23 pairs of chromosomes simultaneously |
| Detection Capability | Limited ability to identify complex abnormalities | Detects chromosomal defects and certain genetic disorders more effectively |
| Speed of Analysis | May require multiple testing steps | Provides faster and more comprehensive results |
| Data Quality | Produces limited genetic information | Generates detailed and high-resolution genetic data |
| IVF Embryo Selection | Less precise embryo selection | Helps identify healthier embryos with greater precision |
| Risk of Misdiagnosis | Higher chance of incomplete results | Lower risk due to advanced sequencing accuracy |
| Cost | Generally less expensive | More expensive because of advanced technology and laboratory requirements |
| Clinical Use | Older fertility centres may still use it | Widely preferred in modern fertility and genetic laboratories |
How NGS Technology Improves IVF Success Rates
NGS (Next-Generation Sequencing) helps by improving IVF success rates by making the process easier for fertility specialists identifying genetically healthy embryos prior implantation. The technology analyses all 23 pairs of chromosomes and detects abnormalities that may lead to implantation failure miscarriage unsuccessful pregnancy outcomes. By selecting chromosomally normal embryos, doctors improve chances of successful implantation and healthy pregnancy development.
NGS especially beneficial women above 35, couples with recurrent IVF failure, and patients repeated miscarriages. Since it allows more accurate embryo selection, it may reduce the need for multiple IVF cycles and improve overall treatment efficiency. Although NGS increases cost of IVF, it can enhance pregnancy outcomes and then helps provide greater confidence during the embryo transfer process.
| Metro City | Estimated IVF Success Rate with NGS | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi NCR | 65% – 95% | Home several advanced fertility centres with highly-skilled embryology and genetics laboratories |
| Mumbai | 60% – 85% | High adoption of advanced IVF technologies and with international-standard fertility clinics |
| Bangalore | 60% – 82% | Known for modern reproductive medicine facilities and then specialised fertility specialists |
| Hyderabad | 58% – 72% | Offers advanced IVF and genetic screening services with comparatively competitive costs |
| Chennai | 55% – 70% | Strong reputation for fertility treatment and experienced IVF specialists |
| Pune | 55% – 68% | Growing fertility hub increasing access NGS-supported IVF procedures |
| Kolkata | 50% – 65% | Availability of affordable fertility treatment improving genetic testing facilities |
| Ahmedabad | 50% – 65% | Expanding IVF infrastructure and increasing demand advanced embryo screening |
Conclusion
NGS (Next-Generation Sequencing) has become an important advancement in modern IVF treatment helping fertility specialists identify genetically healthy embryos and improve pregnancy outcomes. Although it increases the overall cost of fertility treatment, NGS provides greater accuracy embryo selection, reduces risk implantation failure and miscarriage, and may improve IVF success rates especially for couples facing recurrent IVF failure recurrent miscarriage, or age-related fertility challenges.