ABSTRACT
The analysis of metabolite levels within spent embryo culture media fulfils the preceding criteria, and has been one method examined to augment the analysis of embryo morphology as a means of embryo selection. Although the use of metabolomic and proteomic platforms has yet to be proven and employed clinically, analysis of embryo function for its own sake can greatly enhance our understanding of embryo development and hence such approaches could ultimately assist in defining parameters than can be used in embryo selection. Together, such data generate renewed excitement regarding the potential of non-invasive quantification of embryo physiology to assist in the selection of the most viable embryo for transfer, and the potential of combining two independent means of assessing the pre-implantation embryo to improve the accuracy of selection. However, it is proposed that in the near future embryo selection will also be significantly aided by the non-invasive analysis of embryo physiology and function, using approaches that better quantify embryo metabolism.
