IVF NewsNews: Creation of Synthetic Human Embryos using Stem Cells
IVF.net Newsdesk 19 June 2023
A remarkable scientific breakthrough has been achieved as researchers successfully produced synthetic human embryos using stem cells. This milestone allows scientists to bypass the conventional requirement for eggs or sperm, potentially paving the way for significant medical advances. These lab-cultivated embryo models closely mirror those in the earliest stages of human development. Consequently, they offer scientists an invaluable opportunity to delve deeper into the impact of genetic disorders and better understand the biological triggers of recurrent miscarriage. Yet, this scientific accomplishment isn't without its complications. It raises several ethical and legal questions because these laboratory-engineered entities exist outside the bounds of current legislation in the United Kingdom and most other countries worldwide. Unlike natural embryos, these lab-grown structures don't possess a beating heart or preliminary brain development. Nevertheless, they contain cells that usually form essential elements of the embryo, such as the placenta and yolk sac. While the creation of these human embryo-like models marks a significant scientific stride, their practical, clinical use is currently out of reach. Legal restrictions forbid their implantation into a patient's womb, and their potential to mature beyond the initial developmental stages is yet to be confirmed. The main impetus behind this research is to illuminate the mysterious "black box" period of development. Scientists, due to legal constraints, can only cultivate embryos in labs for up to 14 days, hence this period's name. Subsequent developmental tracking occurs much later, relying on pregnancy scans and research-donated embryos. This new approach provides an unprecedented opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge about embryonic development and potential complications, all without the necessity of using early-stage embryos for research. This breakthrough follows previous successes from teams that demonstrated mouse stem cells' ability to self-assemble into early embryo-like structures. This catalyzed efforts to apply these findings to human models, with several teams now having replicated the earliest stages of development successfully. These novel findings are yet to be published in detail in a peer-reviewed journal. However, it has been reported that the embryos were cultivated to a stage slightly beyond what corresponds to 14 days of development in a natural embryo. These lab-grown structures, each originating from a single embryonic stem cell, achieved the developmental milestone known as gastrulation. This process sees the embryo transition from a continuous cell sheet into distinct cell lines, setting the basic body's axes. While these models lack a heart, gut, or preliminary brain, they exhibit the presence of primordial cells - the precursors to egg and sperm cells. This scientific advancement has accentuated the ever-widening gap between the pace of scientific progress and the development of associated legal frameworks. Current legislation fails to acknowledge that these models, due to their close resemblance to normal embryos, should potentially be subject to similar regulation. This discrepancy is causing growing concern among researchers and society at large. Adding to the complex legal and ethical landscape is the unanswered question of whether these synthetic structures could, theoretically, develop into a living organism. Previous attempts to implant synthetic embryos, derived from mouse and monkey cells, into the wombs of female animals, have not resulted in the birth of live offspring. At this point, it remains unclear whether this hurdle is merely technical or indicative of a more profound biological issue. The future of this innovative field is uncertain, but the demand for more comprehensive legislation is evident. The question of whether these synthetic embryos could potentially become living beings underscores the urgency of this issue. As this groundbreaking work continues, both the ethical discourse and regulatory landscape must evolve in parallel with scientific advancements.
Sources and References The Guardian - Synthetic human embryos created in groundbreaking advance [ Full Article ] Webinar: Session 120: Crossover
International IVF Initiative 17 June 2023
Tuesday, 20th June (3 pm EDT / 8 pm UK / 9 pm CET)
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Moderator: Dr. Stephanie Kuku, Dr. Andrew Drakeley, Matt Pettit [ Full Article ] I3 Revisited: The Embryo in Culture: Imprinting, Oxidative Stress and Epigenetic Homeostasis
International IVF Initiative 09 June 2023
A wonderful lecture given by Dr. Kay Elder presenting the work of Professor Yves Ménézo.DR. KAY ELDERFollowing an academic career that included degrees in biochemistry (BSc, University of St Andrews), molecular biology (PhD, University of Colorado Medical School) and medicine (MBBChir, Cambridge), Kay Elder joined the Bourn Hall team as Clinical Assistant to Patrick Steptoe in 1984, directing the Out-Patient Department from 1985-1987 before joining the IVF lab as Senior Embryologist. Prior to medical studies in Cambridge, she was a research scientist at Imperial Cancer Research Fund in London. In 1989 she initiated and directed a program of Continuing Education for IVF doctors, scientists and nurses for the next 16 years, during which time she helped to set up and run two Master’s degree programs in Clinical Embryology. Kay was appointed Deputy Editor to Bob Edwards for the journal RBMonline from 2005. She has published 8 textbooks for IVF students and continues to mentor and tutor postgraduate students. This video is one of many educational resources produced by the International IVF Initiative (I3). As a worldwide movement, I3 focuses on improving education and refining methods in assisted reproductive technologies. To explore a wider range of educational content, we invite you to visit https://ivfmeeting.com. [ Full Article ] News: ART & Embryology training program
Chennai Fertility Center and Research Institute 03 June 2023
July 2023 Training Batch Schedule - 03rd July - 17th July 2023. The International School of Embryology was established to offer training for clinicians in advanced reproductive technologies. Our skill and precision to all aspirants help them to know in-depth knowledge and experience. The members of our teaching faculty aim to bring doctors and embryologists to the highest level of knowledge about reproductive techniques and practical capability in the field. Our courses cover basics in Andrology, embryology, ICSI, and cryosciences (Hands-on). Limited Seats. For admission Contact 9003111598 / 8428278218 (Whats app) [ Full Article ] News: WEIRD SCIENCE
International IVF Initiative 01 June 2023
Tuesday, 13th June (3 pm EST / 8 pm UK / 9 pm CET) VIEW HERE
[ Full Article ] Study: What happens to abnormally fertilized embryos? A scoping review
Reproductive BioMedicine Online 29 May 2023
Embryos derived from oocytes lacking the typical two pronuclei (2PN), a sign of normal fertilization, show different development potentials, according to a comprehensive review of the literature by James Kemper, Yanhe Liu, Masoud Afnan, Ben Mol & Dean Morbeck. The analysis focused on embryos resulting from oocytes with no pronuclei (0PN), a single pronucleus (1PN), or three pronuclei (3PN), collectively termed non-2PN oocytes. The study revealed a significant gap in scientific knowledge about these non-standard fertilization outcomes. In a standard In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) procedure, the presence of two pronuclei and two polar bodies in an oocyte signifies a normally fertilized egg. However, a scarcity of research exists on embryos derived from oocytes that do not adhere to this norm. Despite their rarity, these non-2PN oocytes could potentially increase the pool of embryos eligible for transfer, providing hope for couples who lack high-quality embryos. The literature review, which considered 33 eligible articles, found that while non-2PN oocytes occur less frequently, a significant proportion of them stop developing between day 1 and day 6. As a result, they show a reduced chromosome integrity and diminished clinical utility compared to their 2PN counterparts. The review also identified that blastocyst rates were lower in 1PN oocytes (68.3% versus 32.2%), and that larger 1PN oocytes have a better developmental potential compared to smaller ones. Blastocysts from 1PN oocytes appeared to have a slightly reduced implantation potential and a reduced ongoing pregnancy rate when compared to 2PN blastocysts (33.3% versus 35.9%). While 13 of the included studies reported live birth rates, the results varied significantly, with rates ranging from 0 to 66.7%, pointing to a notable heterogeneity in practices. The study underlines the pressing need for additional research to improve understanding and interpretation of non-2PN oocytes. The authors suggest that advancements in technology such as time-lapse imaging and artificial intelligence algorithms could provide valuable insights into the development and potential viability of embryos from non-2PN oocytes. The study's findings challenge the conventional guidelines that only zygotes with two pronuclei are considered diploid, signifying a significant change in perspective and underscoring the complexity and dynamism of human reproduction. Further studies will be required to confirm these findings, but the potential for new advances in this area holds great promise. Source https://www.rbmojournal.com/article/S1472-6483(23)00111-6/fulltext [ Full Article ] Conference: ESHRE 39th Annual Meeting Copenhagen, Denmark 25-28 June 2023
ESHRE 29 May 2023
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) is gearing up to host its 39th Annual Meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark. Scheduled to take place from June 25th to 28th, 2023, the event promises four days of breakthrough scientific discussions, inspiring speeches, and unparalleled networking opportunities. This meeting follows the successful post-lockdown convention held in Milan in 2022. Copenhagen, acclaimed for its natural beauty and friendly atmosphere, has been chosen as this year's venue. The event will take place at the Bella Centre, which is conveniently located near the city's award-winning metro system and the airport. Copenhagen, known for its extensive bike paths and cycle-friendly infrastructure, offers visitors alternative modes of transport, such as bicycle rentals. Visitors staying beyond the event duration can explore Copenhagen's world-class dining, pristine beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. The city boasts renowned establishments like the Tivoli Gardens and numerous venues for outdoor concerts. Join the world's leading scientists and thought leaders at ESHRE 2023 in Copenhagen, an event that's certain to further the advancement of human reproduction and embryology. https://www.eshre.eu/ESHRE2023 [ Full Article ] Webinar: 80s Famous (Part 1)
International IVF Initiative 26 May 2023
Session 118: 80s Famous (Part 1) Tuesday, 30th May (3 pm EST / 8 pm UK / 9 pm CET) [ Full Article ] I3 Revisited: Cytoplasmic transplantation in the 1990s - Are the kids alright?
International IVF Initiative 24 May 2023
In light of recent developments concerning cytoplasmic transfer in the UK , we're taking another look at this I3 lecture. This talk was included in "SESSION 44: REBOOT - CYTOPLASMIC MANIPULATION FOR IVF FAILURE." The complete session can be viewed at this link.
This video is one of many educational resources produced by the International IVF Initiative (I3). As a worldwide movement, I3 focuses on improving education and refining methods in assisted reproductive technologies. To explore a wider range of educational content, we invite you to visit https://ivfmeeting.com. [ Full Article ] Webinar: ZYMOT FERTILITY SYMPOSIA
International IVF Initiative 21 May 2023
Tuesday, 23rd May (3 pm EDT / 8 pm UK / 9 pm CET)
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