Advancing assisted reproductive technology in Africa: a narrative review on the promising role of molecular biology and molecular techniques.
7 affiliations
- 1Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
- 2Department of Assisted Reproductive Technology, The Chosen Hospital and Fertility Centre, Accra, Ghana.
- 3Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
- 4Royal Diadem School, Achimota Mkt, Accra, Ghana.
- 5Department of Forensic Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
- 6Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana. [email protected].
- 7West African Center of Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens and Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana. [email protected].
Abstract
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) has significantly improved fertility outcomes globally, yet its full potential remains underutilized. In Africa, persistent barriers including high costs, limited access, inadequate infrastructure, lack of awareness, and sociocultural and ethical concerns impedes its utility. This review explores the promising role of molecular biology and advanced molecular techniques in overcoming these challenges and advancing ART on the continent. Techniques such as preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT), and single-cell RNA sequencing offer opportunities to enhance embryo selection, minimize genetic and epigenetic risks, and improve pregnancy success rates. Furthermore, innovations like biomarker discovery, liquid biopsy, and genomic screening can personalize treatment strategies and improve reproductive outcomes. We also provide a narrative on the progress made in expanding ART services, improving affordability through low-cost protocols, and building local expertise through training and collaborations. While challenges persist, especially in regulation and access to ART, the integration of molecular innovations in a phased manner has the potential to transform ART if implemented within appropriate infrastructural, ethical, and policy frameworks. This review underscores the need for sustained investment, policy reform, and interdisciplinary collaboration to bridge existing gaps and ensure that ART technologies are accessible, safe, and effective for all individuals and couples affected by infertility in the region.
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BibTeX
@article{kyei2026advancing,
title = {{Advancing assisted reproductive technology in Africa: a narrative review on the promising role of molecular biology and molecular techniques.}},
author = {Foster Kyei and Clement Napo and Collins Nabawo and Emmanuel Opoku Asante and Benjamin Nyarko and Isaac Kofi Adu and Cara Obenewaa Aidoo and Victoria Essien and Prince Amoah Barnie and Emmanuel Owusu Ansah and Kwadwo Fosu},
journal = {Reproductive health},
year = {2026},
month = jul,
doi = {10.1186/s12978-026-02410-0},
url = {https://europepmc.org/article/MED/42897661},
note = {CC BY-NC-ND},
}
RIS
TY - JOUR
TI - Advancing assisted reproductive technology in Africa: a narrative review on the promising role of molecular biology and molecular techniques.
AU - Foster Kyei
AU - Clement Napo
AU - Collins Nabawo
AU - Emmanuel Opoku Asante
AU - Benjamin Nyarko
AU - Isaac Kofi Adu
AU - Cara Obenewaa Aidoo
AU - Victoria Essien
AU - Prince Amoah Barnie
AU - Emmanuel Owusu Ansah
AU - Kwadwo Fosu
PY - 2026
DA - 2026/07/01
JO - Reproductive health
DO - 10.1186/s12978-026-02410-0
UR - https://europepmc.org/article/MED/42897661
AB - Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) has significantly improved fertility outcomes globally, yet its full potential remains underutilized. In Africa, persistent barriers including high costs, limited access, inadequate infrastructure, lack of awareness, and sociocultural and ethical concerns impedes its utility. This review explores the promising role of molecular biology and advanced molecular techniques in overcoming these challenges and advancing ART on the continent. Techniques such as preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT), and single-cell RNA sequencing offer opportunities to enhance embryo selection, minimize genetic and epigenetic risks, and improve pregnancy success rates. Furthermore, innovations like biomarker discovery, liquid biopsy, and genomic screening can personalize treatment strategies and improve reproductive outcomes. We also provide a narrative on the progress made in expanding ART services, improving affordability through low-cost protocols, and building local expertise through training and collaborations. While challenges persist, especially in regulation and access to ART, the integration of molecular innovations in a phased manner has the potential to transform ART if implemented within appropriate infrastructural, ethical, and policy frameworks. This review underscores the need for sustained investment, policy reform, and interdisciplinary collaboration to bridge existing gaps and ensure that ART technologies are accessible, safe, and effective for all individuals and couples affected by infertility in the region.
SN - 1742-4755
ER -