Unusual anomaly found in DNA of children conceived through IVF

Researchers at Sun Yat-sen University in China have found that children conceived through IVF have elevated levels of LINE-1 DNA, so-called "jumping genes," in their blood. The differences are more pronounced in girls. Scientists emphasize that there is currently insufficient data to draw conclusions about negative health effects of the procedure.

Researchers at Sun Yat-sen University in China analyzed blood samples from 75 children: 33 conceived through IVF and 42 naturally. In the IVF group, the amount of LINE-1 DNA — "jumping genes" capable of copying themselves and moving around the genome — was slightly higher. This trend was more pronounced in girls, while in boys the association was statistically less convincing. Scientists found that the differences affect genome regions near genes linked to heart function, metabolism, the brain, and some types of cancer. However, the study does not prove that IVF increases the risk of these diseases. The analysis was conducted only on DNA from blood and without full genetic comparison with parents, so the origin of the features cannot be precisely determined. Currently, there is insufficient data to draw conclusions about a proven negative impact of IVF on children's health.