Researchers at Malmö University are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the success rates of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Currently, the global success rate of IVF treatments ranges between 30 to 50 percent, and the research team believes that AI, combined with advanced environmental monitoring, could significantly improve these odds.
IVF success is influenced by a wide range of factors, including biological and medical conditions. However, the lab environment also plays a crucial role in determining the outcome of the treatment. Environmental factors such as temperature, air pressure, humidity, and the presence of microparticles can all impact the development of embryos.
Reza Khoshkangini, a researcher leading the project at Malmö University, explained the challenges of maintaining optimal conditions for IVF. “Ideally, the laboratory should be completely sealed to ensure perfect conditions, but that is not practical since samples need to be moved in and out of incubators during the process. The fertilization and embryo development lasts for six days, but the entire IVF cycle takes about six to eight weeks, meaning that external factors can have a significant effect on the outcome,” he said.
In partnership with industry leaders, Khoshkangini and his team have developed sophisticated sensors designed to monitor environmental conditions in real-time. These sensors, installed at the reproduction center, collect data every ten minutes, continuously tracking variables that could influence the IVF process. Additionally, high-resolution imaging during embryo development provides further data for AI-driven analysis, offering valuable insights into how these factors might impact success rates.
“The goal is for AI to identify patterns or correlations between fluctuations in environmental conditions and the resulting embryo development. By understanding how negative environmental factors affect outcomes, we can make adjustments to optimize lab conditions,” said Khoshkangini. “Using machine learning, AI can predict which conditions are most likely to result in a successful pregnancy, allowing us to refine the IVF process.”
In addition to their work in Malmö, Khoshkangini and his team plan to expand their research by collaborating with IVF clinics outside of Europe. The team is interested in exploring how local climates and environmental factors could further influence IVF success. Khoshkangini emphasized that the inability to conceive affects not only individuals but also has broader societal implications. Improving IVF outcomes presents an opportunity to address global challenges in fertility, family planning, mental health, and socio-economic equality.
By integrating AI with advanced environmental monitoring, this research aims to provide a more precise, data-driven approach to IVF, offering hope for higher success rates and better outcomes for families worldwide.
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