Using an Aneuploid Mouse Embryo Model to Uncover miRNA Indicators of Human Embryo Developmental Potential

The proposed research project aims to improve IVF (in vitro fertilization) by making it safer, more accurate, and less stressful for patients. It achieves this by developing a new, non-invasive method to determine whether early-stage embryos have the correct number of chromosomes. Instead of the current method, which involves taking a small sample from the embryo, our study will test for specific molecules called microRNAs that embryos naturally release into their surrounding fluid. By comparing microRNA patterns from healthy and abnormal embryos, first in mice and then in samples from patients at a fertility clinic, this research seeks to reliably identify embryos with the highest chances of leading to a successful pregnancy without harming the embryo. This project could increase IVF success rates, lower costs, lessen the emotional burden on families, and help keep the fertility clinic at the London Health Sciences Centre at the forefront of fertility care and technology in Canada.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dean Betts

Student:

Partner:

London Health Sciences Centre

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

The University of Western Ontario

Program: