Embryo Viability Assessment via Specific Gravity Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current embryo selection methods in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are invasive, subjective, and do not reliably predict fecundity, leading to inefficiencies in pregnancy rates and increased risks of multiple gestations.
Innovation Solution
A system using specific gravity to estimate embryo weight, which assesses viability and growth potential by measuring the descent time of embryos through a media-filled chamber, allowing for non-invasive grading and potentially enhancing embryo development.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is used to select embryos, then genetic defects can be diagnosed, but the procedure is invasive, requires significant equipment and expertise, carries risk for embryo damage, and does not ensure fecundity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/invasive biopsy method with a non-invasive optical measurement system. Instead of physically extracting cells for genetic analysis, the system uses optical parameters (refractive index, scattering properties) to assess embryo viability and chromosomal abnormalities, eliminating the harmful mechanical intervention while maintaining selection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical fields as an intermediary between the embryo and the assessment system. By measuring optical properties (transmission, scattering, refractive index) of the embryo, the system can infer genetic and viability information without direct contact or physical manipulation, thus avoiding embryo damage risk
2Measurement precision
If traditional morphology-based embryo grading is used, then embryo quality can be assessed, but the method is subjective and leads to disagreement on what constitutes a normal embryo
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective visual morphology grading with objective optical measurement systems. By using quantitative optical parameters (refractive index, light scattering coefficients, transmission characteristics), the system eliminates subjectivity and provides precise, reproducible measurements of embryo quality that are independent of observer opinion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameters from morphological (visual appearance) to optical physical parameters (refractive index, scattering intensity, transmission time). This parameter transformation converts subjective grading into objective quantitative data, resolving the disagreement about normal embryo criteria through measurable physical properties
3Productivity
If multiple embryos are transferred to improve pregnancy rates, then pregnancy chances increase, but the risk of multiple gestations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical assessment to identify the single most viable embryo, replacing the need to transfer multiple embryos. By accurately measuring optical properties to predict implantation success, the system enables confident single embryo transfer, maintaining high pregnancy rates while eliminating multiple gestation risk
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through optical measurements that provide real-time information about embryo viability and implantation potential. This feedback allows selection of the optimal single embryo for transfer, ensuring high success rates without the need to transfer multiple embryos, thus preventing multiple gestations
4Reliability
If invasive embryo harvesting for genetic screening is performed, then genetic defects can be detected, but the procedure requires significant equipment and expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical biopsy equipment with simpler optical measurement devices. By using light transmission and scattering properties as proxies for genetic health, the system detects chromosomal abnormalities and genetic defects through non-invasive optical characterization, reducing equipment complexity and expertise requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical fields as an intermediary to assess genetic health without direct physical access to embryo cells. The optical measurements serve as a non-invasive proxy that can detect genetic abnormalities through their effect on light interaction with the embryo, eliminating the need for complex harvesting and analysis equipment
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enables the selection of high-quality embryos with 100% recovery and detects differences in growth potential at early stages, potentially increasing pregnancy rates while reducing multiple gestations.
Implementation Method 1
A system using specific gravity to estimate embryo weight, which assesses viability and growth potential by measuring the descent time of embryos through a media-filled chamber
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a system for determining fecundity of an embryo utilizing a non¬invasive grading of early stage embryos (pre-hatching) based upon specific gravity, density and/or estimated weight. The system allows 100% recovery of embryos and can detect differences in growth potential at the earliest stages of development. The system may further enhance the development of embryos by utilization of microfluidic effects during use. The disclosed system supports a wide variety of scenarios for human and animal reproductive technologies and related products and services.