Non-invasive Embryo Ploidy Detection via Time-lapse Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current IVF methods are inefficient due to high rates of aneuploidy in human embryos, leading to low success rates and increased risks of miscarriage and multiple gestations, as they rely on subjective morphologic assessments that fail to accurately predict embryo viability and ploidy.
Innovation Solution
Non-invasive time-lapse imaging of human embryos from the zygote to the blastocyst stage to determine ploidy by analyzing specific cell cycle parameters, such as cytokinesis duration and time intervals between cell stages, which are predictive of both embryo quality and ploidy, allowing for early selection of euploid embryos for transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional subjective morphologic assessment is used for embryo evaluation, then the method is simple and non-invasive, but the accuracy of predicting embryo viability and ploidy is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective visual morphologic assessment with automated time-lapse imaging systems that objectively measure cell cycle parameters. The imaging system captures continuous video of embryo development, and software algorithms automatically analyze cell division timing, duration, and morphology, eliminating human subjectivity while providing precise quantitative data about embryo ploidy and viability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent shifts from assessing static morphologic features to measuring dynamic cell cycle parameters such as time between cell divisions, duration of cytokinesis, and timing of developmental milestones. These temporal parameters provide new information about embryo health and ploidy that cannot be obtained from traditional morphologic assessment alone.
2Measurement precision
If invasive biopsy is performed for genetic screening, then ploidy detection accuracy is improved, but embryo viability is compromised and additional costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses time-lapse imaging as an intermediary method to indirectly assess embryo ploidy without direct intervention. Instead of physically removing cells for biopsy, the system observes and measures the natural cell cycle behavior of the embryo, inferring ploidy status from the timing and pattern of cell divisions. This intermediary approach provides genetic information while preserving embryo integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical invasive procedure of biopsy with a non-invasive optical imaging system. The imaging system uses light to capture embryo development without physical contact, eliminating the risks associated with needle puncture, cell loss, and disruption of embryo-matrix interactions that occur during traditional biopsy procedures.
3Productivity
If multiple embryos are transferred to compensate for low success rates, then the chance of achieving pregnancy is improved, but the risk of multiple gestations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using time-lapse imaging data to continuously monitor and evaluate each embryo's developmental progress in real-time. The system provides feedback on cell cycle parameters and morphologic changes, allowing clinicians to identify the single best embryo for transfer based on objective criteria. This feedback mechanism enables confident selection of one high-quality embryo rather than transferring multiple embryos with uncertain potential.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary evaluation of embryo ploidy and viability through extended time-lapse imaging before the transfer decision is made. By assessing cell cycle parameters and developmental timing in advance, the system identifies euploid embryos with high implantation potential beforehand, allowing transfer of a single well-selected embryo rather than multiple embryos with variable quality.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods are provided for the non-invasive imaging of embryos to determine whether they are euploid or aneuploid.