An Israeli study aims to enhance pregnancy success rates through in vitro fertilization (IVF) by employing artificial intelligence and innovative sperm selection techniques. Led by Prof. Amir Weiser, the research team at Meir Medical Center's IVF clinic in Kfar Saba has published their findings in the journal Biomedicines.
The groundbreaking study focuses on a novel sperm selection method that could significantly improve IVF outcomes. Selecting the right sperm from millions is critical, as only a small percentage are viable for fertilization. Approximately 50% of sperm are immobile, and 95% are morphologically inadequate, highlighting the importance of quality selection.
The World Health Organization (WHO) sets dimensional criteria for sperm quality, including the size and shape of the head, neck, and tail. Traditionally, embryologists manually select sperm under a microscope, a process that is subjective and only partially successful. However, AI technologies can assess sperm based on movement and structure without chemical exposure, potentially identifying the best candidates for fertilization.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a nontoxic, AI-based method that evaluates a single cell by measuring light infiltration and translating it into a 3D density map. This allows for precise, automated measurement of cell components.
Q-ART Medical developed the tool used by Weiser and his team. In the study, embryologists first selected sperm using traditional methods. These sperm were then evaluated with the new technology to determine compatibility with WHO criteria. The results were striking: only 19% of sperm chosen through the old method met WHO standards. The new technique, therefore, has the potential to increase the efficiency of sperm selection fivefold.
- Dr. Matan Levi is the director of the in vitro fertilization and andrology laboratories at the Meir Medical Center