P-295 Application of a Time-Lapse Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) approach in a pilot study to visualise oocytes and embryos in depth

Abstract Study question Can we visualise model oocytes and embryos during embryo development using OCT non-invasively? Summary answer This approach, new to embryology, OCT, allows visualising cells in a 3D perspective, providing more detailed information than standard microscopy from the oocyte or embryo. What is known already Time-lapse well-established technique human IVF, but it limited its depth of view due limitations classical microscopy. To overcome this limitation, approach Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), non-invasive visualisation through optical cross-sections produce images. The obtained can be extended 4 5 dimensions track movement elasticity, low-power light source no staining ensure minimum effect on cell. Here, pilot study was performed (porcine) samples newly developed “in incubator” system. design, size, duration A basic where 16 cleavage were prepared visualised OCT. Participants/materials, setting, methods Pig ovaries slaughterhouse, which follicles aspirated order retrieve oocytes. best-quality cultured for maturation 44 hours selected imaging. before fertilisation 2 hours. Sperm previously by Percoll gradient. Zygotes 6 days until For imaging, 16-well Primo Vision dish. Main results role chance Oocytes successfully imaged, allowing identification distinct cellular features. In oocytes, possible identify germinal vesicle (nucleus) polar bodies, individual blastomeres stage trophectoderm, ICM blastocoel blastocysts. As images taken throughout different sections, correlate position areas within oocytes/embryos create image blastocyst, understanding size inner cell mass compared with embryo's overall size. Interestingly, non-invasively under optimal conditions (in an incubator), demonstrating future utility Limitations, reasons caution An experimental system placed incubator, all format study. Future imaging sessions are planned obtain data points assess viability Wider implications findings Although present study, applied pig embryos, employed IVF current limitations, proving embryos’ quality assisting Artificial Intelligence analysis. Trial registration number not applicable