Time Lapse OCT for Visualizing Eggs and Embryos
Canedo-Ribeiro et al, HR
Many IVF labs are now equipped with time-lapse incubators that allow continuous visualization of embryos and how they develop. In this study, a new method for time lapse microscopy is being proposed, called Optical Coherence Tomography or OCT. OCT is a technology that uses light waves to optically “slice” images (cross-sectional) and show details of internal structures that would otherwise be invisible.
A prototype system was built, placed in an incubator and used to image pig eggs and embryos. This successful implementation paves the way to the development of a system for human eggs and embryos and collection of information that may help better selection during IVF treatments.