Genetics SIG

The purpose of the Reproductive Genetics SIG shall be to establish an organized presence of geneticists, genetic counsellors, and related professionals (reproductive endocrinologists, andrologists, embryologists, ethicists) within the CAFS with the following aims:

• To promote and facilitate translation of knowledge of reproductive genetics to the professionals in the field of human reproduction (natural and assisted) covering but not limited to the areas of female/male
• fertility, embryo genetics, preimplantation/prenatal genetics, genetic screening, genetic testing methods and new techniques, interpretation and impact of genetic results, ethical implications, pharmacogenetics and personalized treatment in reproduction, gene editing and gene therapies.
• To promote the study and discussion of all aspects of the genetics and epigenetics of human reproduction (natural or assisted).
• To establish a system of producing and maintaining evidence-based and ethically sound guidelines for reproductive genetic testing, reporting and counselling.
• To establish and coordinate research, education, and training in preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), and reinforce the collaboration of obstetricians, fertility specialists, embryologists and human geneticists, to insure the implementation of the appropriate PGT technology for the improvement of ART.
• To establish and coordinate research, education, and training in genetic counselling related to reproductive genetics (in coordination with the CAGC Fertility SIG)
• To study the transmission of maternal and paternal genotypes via the gametes and the zygote to the next generation and the way in which this new combination of genetic material expresses itself and is modulated by epigenetic influences.
• To provide a forum for discussion and exchange of information on regulations of gene editing, gene therapy and reproductive genetics in ARTs
• To serve as a resource to health care professions, and the lay public (journalist, politicians) on issues concerning reproductive genetics
• To discuss patient psychosocial issues surrounding genetic testing in ART

 

Wael Jamal, MD, FRCSC

Chair 

Dr. Wael Jamal received his Bachelor of Health Sciences and his medical degree from the University Abdul-Aziz of Saudi Arabia in 1998. Then he moved to Montreal to complete his training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at McGill University. He became a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in 2007.

He completed a one year fellowship program in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, a joint project between the University of Montreal and McGill University Health Center, in collaboration with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. He completed a two-year fellowship training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the University of Montreal.

Dr. Wael Jamal is actively involved in research projects. His areas of interest include the use of 3D ultrasound, the study of sperm morphology and mild stimulation IVF. He received the first prize for the best summary of gynecology residents at the annual meeting of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada (SOGC) in 2006. In 2007 he was awarded as a resident for his research by the Canadian Foundation for Women Health, in addition to obtaining the Eric and James Molson prize of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at McGill University for the level of excellence in research, both in 2006 and 2007. In 2009, he was given the second research award at the annual meeting of the Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Quebec. 

Dr. Wael Jamal has been actively involved in both clinical and academic work as a member of the teaching faculty in the REI fellowship training program at University of Montreal and as a scholar involved in multiple research projects and trials with special interest in mosaic embryos and recurrent pregnancy loss

Dr. Wael Jamal has been an active member of the CFAS and he takes pride in being an advocate for women health and fertility awareness and looks forward for the next chapter in addressing all related issues and being an esteemed member in a pan-Canadian leadership role in achieving the goals for this noble cause.