Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT)
Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT): A technique in which the male and female germ cells required to begin formation of a human embryo are injected into a woman’s fallopian tubes of the female for fertilization. This technique is one of the methods doctors use to overcome infertility, the inability of couples to produce offspring on their own.
Gametes (germ cells) in males are the spermatozoa, or sperm, and those in females are ova, or eggs. After a sperm fertilizes an egg in the fallopian tubes, the egg implants itself in the uterus (womb), a hollow organ that lodges and nourishes the embryo during its development.
The term “intrafallopian” means “inside the fallopian tubes.” (“Intra,” a Latin word, means “within” or “inside.”) Thus, in the GIFT technique, fertilization takes place inside the body of the female. By contrast, in the technique of in vitro fertilization (IVF), eggs are fertilized outside the body.
“Gamete” is derived from the Greek word “gamete” (wife) and “gamein” (to marry).
Read Also:
- Gametic selection
Gametic selection: Preferential selection of gametes (germ cells — sperm or eggs). Gametic selection is a mechanism of transmission distortion.
- Gametogenesis
Gametogenesis: The development and production of the male and female germ cells required to form a new individual. The male and female germ cells are called gametes. The gametes in human males are produced by the testes, two globe-shaped reproductive organs just below the penis. Male gametes are what most people refer to as sperm. […]
- Gametophobia
Gametophobia: An abnormal and persistent fear of being married. Sufferers of gametophobia experience undue anxiety even though they may rationally realize that the married state itself poses no threat to them. They may fear the challenge of living with another person and the responsibility of rearing a family. Or they may worry about failing as […]
- Gamma globulin
Gamma globulin: A major class of immunoglobulins found in the blood, including many of the most common antibodies circulating in the blood. Also called immunoglobulin G (IgG).
- Gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB)
Gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB): Known in Europe as Gamma-OH, gamma hydroxybutyrate is a colorless and odorless drug used illicitly for “recreational” purposes and for “date rape.” GBH is a central nervous system depressant. It tends therefore to increase sociability and function as something of a transient antidepressant. Some persons who have sustained adverse effects of GHB […]