IVF News

Training Batch Schedule September 2025 

Batch - IX :    1st  to 15th  September

The International School of Embryology a unit of Chennai Fertility Centre and Research Institute was established to offer training in Advanced Reproductive Techniques and Embryology for clinicians and embryologists. It will help them to know in-depth knowledge and have good hands-on training. The members of our teaching faculty aim to bring Clinician and Embryologists to the highest level of knowledge about Assisted Reproductive Technology and practical capability.

Our courses cover basics in Andrology, Embryology, ICSI & Cryosciences (Hands-on).

Limited Seats. For admission Contact  9003111598 / 8428278218 

A new study published in Nature Communications has revealed that RNA profiles in sperm could provide critical insights into embryo quality, offering a potential tool for improving outcomes in assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF and ICSI. Researchers found that specific sperm RNA elements (SREs), present at fertilization, correlate with the developmental potential of resulting embryos, providing a measurable indicator of embryo viability before implantation.

Experimental AI conversation.

The team, led by researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine, analyzed over 300 blastocysts created through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and linked them back to the sperm used for fertilization. Their findings identified 648 distinct SREs in the sperm, which were then evaluated for associations with embryo development outcomes, including successful blastocyst formation, cell counts, and ploidy status.

Of these SREs, 145 were found to significantly correlate with one or more markers of embryo quality. Notably, the study found that higher levels of specific sperm RNAs corresponded with embryos more likely to reach blastocyst stage, have higher inner cell mass and trophectoderm cell counts, and be euploid—key indicators of potential implantation success and pregnancy.

This research builds on earlier findings that sperm RNA contributes more than previously appreciated to early embryonic development. While traditional embryo selection is based on morphology and sometimes preimplantation genetic testing, these methods rely primarily on oocyte and embryo assessment. The introduction of sperm RNA profiling adds a new dimension to embryo evaluation by factoring in the molecular cargo delivered by the sperm at fertilization.

Importantly, the sperm RNA signatures were consistent across multiple embryos from the same donor, suggesting a stable and donor-specific profile that could be screened prior to or alongside oocyte retrieval and fertilization. The predictive value of SREs was independent of donor age, fertility status, or conventional semen analysis parameters, underscoring the potential of RNA-based metrics to complement or surpass traditional male fertility assessments.

Although this approach is not yet ready for routine clinical use, the findings open the door to non-invasive molecular diagnostics that could help guide embryo selection, particularly in cases of unexplained infertility or recurrent implantation failure. With further validation, sperm RNA profiling may provide embryologists with a novel tool to select embryos with the highest chances of leading to a healthy pregnancy, ultimately improving IVF success rates.

Sources

21 July 2025. News Medical Life Sciences

• Sperm RNA profiles could identify the best embryos for IVF

17 July 2025. Nature Communications

• Small RNA in sperm–Paternal contributions to human embryo development

Our course is not just any educational program; it's a gateway to enhancing your existing experience, providing additional professional education without disrupting your daily workplace responsibilities. With flexible delivery options, part of our program can be completed at your convenience, either in Canada or overseas, allowing you to tailor your learning experience to fit your life.

This program demands a high level of commitment but promises unparalleled rewards. It prepares both scientists and physicians with an interest in Clinical Embryology for independent practice and offers continuous learning opportunities. Join us to build a robust career, equipped with the knowledge and skills to make significant contributions to the field of fertility and embryology. Your journey to becoming a leader in assisted reproductive technologies begins here. Don't miss this unique advantage to shape your future and make a lasting impact in the lives of others.

Tuesday 15th July 3pm ET, 8pm BST, 9pm CET

A webinar kindly sponsored by Thermo Fisher Scientific

Moderators:
Dr. Berthe Youness
Dr. Balsam Al-Hashimi
Prof. Darren Griffin

Presenters:
Dr. Cengiz Cinnioglu: Unlikely Beginnings: PGT Insights from 0PN and 1PN Blastocyst

Dr. Anil Biricik: A SNP in Time: Genotyping Dubiously Fertilized Embryos

Dr. George Liperis: First Moves

Round table discussion and Q and A

View Now

New data suggest men over 45 may reduce chances of live birth even with young donor eggs

Experimental AI conversation.

New research presented at the 2025 European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) meeting has highlighted a growing concern in assisted reproduction: the age of the father. While maternal age has long been recognized as a critical factor in fertility and miscarriage risk, this large-scale study indicates that paternal age also plays a significant role—particularly in the context of IVF, even when using donor eggs from young women.

The findings come from an analysis of nearly 5,000 IVF embryo transfers using donor eggs, conducted across clinics in Spain. All egg donors were under the age of 35, allowing researchers to isolate the impact of the male partner’s age. The results were striking: when the male partner was aged 45 or older, the risk of miscarriage increased by 44 percent compared to younger age groups. Moreover, live birth rates dropped by nearly a third.

This pattern remained consistent even when embryos were genetically screened prior to implantation. The results suggest that sperm from older men may contribute to early pregnancy loss through mechanisms other than aneuploidy. Age-related declines in sperm quality, DNA fragmentation, and epigenetic changes are among the hypothesized contributors.

While the effect of paternal age on fertility outcomes is not a new area of inquiry, this study is among the most robust to date to control for maternal age and egg quality. It offers renewed evidence that the reproductive clock is not solely ticking for women. For clinicians and patients, the findings underscore the importance of considering male age during fertility counseling and treatment planning.

Researchers behind the study have called for updates to public health guidance and clinical protocols. Currently, most fertility information places little emphasis on male age thresholds. However, the data suggest that after the age of 45, men may face a significantly diminished likelihood of successful pregnancy through IVF—even when the female partner is young or donor eggs are used.

As more couples delay parenthood, these findings may have far-reaching implications. With the average age of fathers steadily increasing in many countries, awareness of paternal age effects on fertility and miscarriage risk is becoming increasingly important in both natural and assisted conception.

Sources

29 June 2025. The Times

• Men's biological clock linked to IVF miscarriages

30 June 2025. Independent

• Older fathers linked to 'significantly' higher IVF miscarriage risk

30 June 2025. Daily Mail

• Sperm from men over the age of 45 are linked to higher IVF miscarriages and lower birth rates – even when young donor eggs were used

Breakthrough in stem cell reprogramming redefines the possibilities of mammalian reproduction

Experimental AI conversation.

In a landmark achievement, researchers in Japan have successfully created mice born from two male parents, and for the first time, these mice have gone on to produce healthy offspring of their own. The findings, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), represent a pivotal step toward understanding the mechanisms of sex-specific reproduction and could one day pave the way for same-sex biological parenthood in humans.

The team, led by Katsuhiko Hayashi at Osaka University, reprogrammed skin cells from adult male mice into induced pluripotent stem cells. These cells were then converted into immature egg cells using a novel in vitro culture system. Crucially, a precise series of genetic manipulations were used to remove the male Y chromosome and duplicate the X chromosome, effectively producing genetically female egg cells from male origins. When fertilized with sperm from another male mouse, the resulting embryos developed normally and were implanted into surrogate female mice, ultimately leading to the birth of viable, fertile offspring.

This is the first time a mammalian species has produced multigenerational progeny from exclusively male genetic material. While similar experiments had previously been attempted using two female sets of DNA, this marks a scientific first for male-male reproduction. The mice that resulted from these experiments displayed normal growth and reproductive capabilities, offering proof-of-concept that such methods can produce functional germline transmission.

The implications of this research are profound. Beyond offering insight into sex chromosome biology and the potential for infertility treatments, the study raises the possibility that, in the future, two men could have genetically related children without needing a female egg donor. However, scientists caution that this remains a distant prospect. The efficiency of producing viable offspring was low, and the entire procedure involves complex steps with uncertain outcomes in species other than mice.

Ethical considerations are also critical. Rewriting the reproductive biology of mammals raises significant questions around the applications and boundaries of such technology in humans. These include concerns about genetic integrity, consent, and the long-term impact on offspring.

Nonetheless, the study marks a significant milestone in reproductive biology. By demonstrating that viable eggs can be derived from male cells and used to produce healthy, fertile progeny, this research challenges long-standing assumptions about the biological roles of sperm and eggs. It opens new paths for exploring chromosomal engineering, gametogenesis, and potentially, new family structures grounded in shared genetics.

As the field advances, the work by Hayashi’s team will likely serve as a foundation for deeper investigation into cellular reprogramming and reproductive autonomy. For now, the birth of mice with two fathers and their subsequent reproduction represents not just a technical accomplishment, but a bold reimagining of what is biologically possible.

Sources

23 June 2025. PNAS

• Fertile androgenetic mice generated by targeted epigenetic editing of imprinting control regions

23 June 2025. New Scientist

• Mice with two fathers have their own offspring for the first time

23 June 2025. ARS Technica

• Researchers get viable mice by editing DNA from two sperm

27 June 2025. Science Alert

• Scientific First: Mice With Two Fathers Now Have Offspring

26 June 2025. The Week

• How mice with two dads bring us closer to two men having a child of their own

Training Batch Schedule August 2025 

Batch - VIII :    4th  to 18th August

The International School of Embryology a unit of Chennai Fertility Centre and Research Institute was established to offer training in Advanced Reproductive Techniques and Embryology for clinicians and embryologists. It will help them to know in-depth knowledge and have good hands-on training. The members of our teaching faculty aim to bring Clinician and Embryologists to the highest level of knowledge about Assisted Reproductive Technology and practical capability.

Our courses cover basics in Andrology, Embryology, ICSI & Cryosciences (Hands-on).

Limited Seats. For admission Contact  9003111598 / 8428278218 

Building on your existing knowledge and experience, the course offers advanced learning and establishes good practice in clinical embryology and assisted reproduction technologies. It allows you to remain in full-time employment while you study and offers superb academic and professional development opportunities.

The course features a series of compulsory modules that you’ll work through progressively along a set timeline. Through these modules you’ll develop your knowledge of both the theory and practice of clinical embryology. The MSc culminates with the research proposal in which you’ll create a hypothesis driven research proposal.

Designed for the working professional: The course is designed to allow the working professional to study while remaining in full-time employment. The course is part-time and the schedule is designed to be manageable for working individuals.

Staff expertise and support: Our academic staff have many years of professional and research experience in the field of clinical embryology and reproduction. Their diverse specialisations, ranging from reproductive biology to assisted reproduction technologies, underpin the uniqueness of the course at Leeds. Their insights and guidance will significantly enrich your learning experience. You’ll be supported by staff members who have years of experience in assisting distance-learning students with their studies. You’ll be assigned an academic tutor who will guide and advise you throughout the course.

International community: You'll connect with practitioners and fellow learners worldwide, fostering an enriching exchange of ideas and perspectives and allowing mutual sharing of expertise. This global network can be instrumental in shaping your career path and broadening your understanding of international practices in clinical embryology.

Interdisciplinary collaboration: The course is hosted by the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine within the School of Medicine which fosters a rich, interdisciplinary teaching and research environment.

Ground-breaking research: Our faculty members are involved in world-leading research in fundamental and clinical research in areas related to gametes and preimplantation embryos, epigenetics, in vitro growth and maturation of oocytes, fertility preservation, uterine biology, and placental biology among other areas. This pioneering academic environment will help position you at the forefront of advancements in the field of reproductive science.

Chennai Fertility Centre and Research Institute, offering an Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Embryology and Preimplantation Genetics association with Bharathiar University.

Our mission is to provide

• Extensive hands-on training
• Unlock new opportunities with advanced learning
• State-of-the Art facilities
•  In-depth theoretical knowledge and practical skills
•  Specialized training for Career support 

Eligibility:

Under Graduation and Post-Graduation in any Life Sciences, Bio Medical Sciences, Medical Sciences and Veterinary Sciences from a recognized university

Join Us! Our program details and admission process

• Contact : 9003111598 / 8428278218
• Mail: [email protected]

Automation in the IVF Lab: From Manual to Machine Precision

17th June 3pm ET, 8pm UK, 9pm CET

This webinar is kindly sponsored by Conceivable Life Sciences

Hosts:
Dr. David Sable and Dr. Cristina Hickman

Introduction by Dr. David Sable “Executive Order”

Presenters:
Dr. Alejandro Chavez Badiola “Look inside the Aura”
Dr. Jason Swain “The evolving role of the Lab Director/Embryologist: What does the future hold in store?“
Dr. Gerardo Mendizabal Ruiz “Embryoneering the IVF lab”

Q and A

VIEW HERE