Last week, during a medical conference in Milan, a French researcher disclosed information about a sperm donor who has contributed through the Danish sperm bank European Sperm Bank across Europe since 2008. This individual possesses a rare genetic mutation capable of leading to cancer.
Studies have indicated that a seldom seen mutation happens in the
TP53 gene
It is still uncertain what proportion of his sperm cells successfully transmit the gene to offspring conceived through them; however, it is believed to be under 50%.
This distressing finding came to light after two families with donor-conceived children noticed instances of cancer. It is estimated that across Europe, approximately ten children may be affected, encompassing cases such as leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. However, the sperm donor does not appear to suffer from these illnesses. The genetic anomaly carried by the donor is responsible for this issue.
Li-Fraumeni syndrome
, an uncommon yet prevalent genetic condition that greatly elevates the risk for various types of cancer.
The particular sperm sample has been distributed to fertility clinics across eleven different European nations since 2008.
(SR – Source: Het Nieuwsblad – Illustrative image: ©Image by StockSnap from Pixabay)
