MSNBC - Brave New Babies

MSNBC - Brave New Babies: "Advances in reproductive technology now make it possible for parents to choose the gender of their children. Here are three methods with varying costs, complexities and success rates.
�MicroSort Method
�Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis
�Ericsson Method



1 This experimental technique separates girl-producing sperm, which carry X chromosomes, from boy-producing sperm, which have Y chromosomes.
2 The sperm are stained with a fluorescent dye that binds to chromosomes. X chromosomes are bigger than Y's, so they soak up more dye.
3 The sperm are zapped with a laser that illuminates the dye. X chromosomes, with more dye, glow brighter, distinguishing them from Y chromosomes.
4 Sperm pass by an electrode that gives X's a positive charge and Y's a negative one. Charged plates then attract and separate X's and Y's, channeling them into different receptacles. Separation is not perfect.
5 Either sample can now be used to fertilize a woman's eggs, depending on the gender requested."