A new method to select healthier embryos for IVF
Official title: A non-invasive metabolic sensor for improving success in IVF
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10894790 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new, gentle way to help choose the best embryos during IVF, so that couples can have a better chance of a successful pregnancy without needing to transfer multiple embryos.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $242,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HD109079-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10894790 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals undergoing IVF treatment who are seeking improved outcomes in embryo selection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing IVF or those with conditions that preclude them from IVF may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a non-invasive metabolic sensor that can improve the selection process of embryos during in vitro fertilization (IVF). Current methods rely on visual assessments of embryo morphology, which can be subjective and often lead to poor predictive outcomes. By utilizing advanced biosensing techniques, this project seeks to provide a more accurate and objective way to identify the healthiest embryos for transfer, potentially increasing implantation success rates and reducing the need for multiple embryo transfers. This could lead to healthier pregnancies and lower healthcare costs associated with IVF.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the success rates of IVF treatments and promote healthier pregnancies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using non-invasive techniques for embryo selection, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abate, Adam R. — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Abate, Adam R.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.