Automated Embryo Morphology Kinetics Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for selecting viable embryos in IVF are subjective and labor-intensive, relying on morphological evaluations with limited predictive value, and manual review of time-lapse videos is time-consuming and prone to inter- and intra-observer variations, leading to potential failures in identifying embryos with the highest developmental potential.
Innovation Solution
Quantitative assessment of dynamic changes in human embryo morphology at the morula and/or blastocyst stage using imaging features, specifically measuring compaction, cavitation, and blastocyst expansion and collapse kinetics, with automated analysis of image features such as area, texture, and cellular parameters to determine embryo viability and likelihood of euploidy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual review of time-lapse videos is used for embryo assessment, then detailed morphological evaluation can be performed, but the process becomes time-consuming and prone to inter- and intra-observer variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with automated image analysis software that processes time-lapse images through multiple algorithms (thresholding, edge detection, region growing) to objectively measure embryo morphological parameters, thereby eliminating observer variability and reducing assessment time
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-assessment by having the embryo images automatically analyzed by computational algorithms that extract morphological features and generate viability predictions without requiring manual intervention, allowing the data to speak for itself through quantitative metrics
2Productivity
If simple morphological observations are used for embryo selection, then the assessment process is quick and easy, but the predictive value for implantation success is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the embryo assessment into multiple quantitative parameters including cell number, fragmentation percentage, compaction timing, cavitation timing, and expansion rate, allowing comprehensive evaluation of developmental kinetics rather than relying on single overall impressions
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from qualitative morphological descriptions to quantitative parameter measurements, tracking temporal changes in embryo morphology through time-lapse imaging and calculating kinetic parameters that correlate with implantation potential and euploidy
3Loss of information
If extended culture of embryos to blastocyst stage is used to assess quality, then more information about developmental potential is obtained, but the culture period is prolonged and embryo integrity may be disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary assessment of embryo viability by analyzing morphological parameters and developmental kinetics at earlier stages (cleavage stage), using automated image analysis to predict which embryos will reach blastocyst stage successfully, allowing selection before extended culture is required
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, compositions and kits for determining the developmental potential of one or more embryos are provided. These methods, compositions and kits find use in identifying embryos in vitro that are most useful in treating infertility in humans.