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2024 Academic Publications
New Frozen Embryo Technology: Laser-Assisted Blastocyst Shrinkage to Improve Pregnancy Rates
NUWA Fertility presented the latest research at the 2024 Taiwan Society of Reproductive Medicine (TSRM), confirming that for blastocysts of certain sizes, using laser-assisted shrinkage technology before vitrification freezing can significantly enhance the pregnancy potential of subsequent thawed embryo transfers.

Research Background: Why is Laser-Assisted Blastocyst Shrinkage Needed?
Vitrification freezing is an advanced technique for embryo preservation. However, during the freezing process, excessive fluid inside the blastocyst may reduce the efficiency of cryoprotectant exchange and increase the risk of ice crystal formation, which can damage embryo cells. To address this issue, this study aimed to investigate whether reducing the fluid inside the blastocyst through laser-assisted shrinkage could optimize vitrification outcomes and thereby improve subsequent pregnancy rates.

Research Method: Exploring the Effect of Laser Shrinkage on Pregnancy Rates

This study focused on blastocysts undergoing vitrification freezing, examining whether the use of laser-assisted shrinkage before freezing affects clinical pregnancy rates after thawing and transfer. The research team rigorously analyzed relevant data to evaluate the potential benefits of this new technology.

Study Focus: Does Laser-Assisted Shrinkage of Blastocysts Used in Vitrification Affect Clinical Pregnancy Rates After Thawing and Transfer?

Research Results: Laser Shrinkage Significantly Enhances Pregnancy Potential for Blastocysts of Certain Sizes

The results clearly showed that for embryos larger than 150 micrometers (μm), applying laser-assisted shrinkage before vitrification freezing significantly improved the freezing outcome, thereby increasing the pregnancy potential of high-quality blastocysts during thaw cycles. This finding provides important clinical guidance on more effective embryo preservation and selection.

Conclusion and Clinical Significance

This study confirms that laser-assisted blastocyst shrinkage technology can optimize vitrification outcomes under certain conditions and increase the success rate of subsequent embryo implantation. The application of this new technology is expected to bring higher pregnancy chances to more couples seeking IVF treatment. NUWA Fertility will continue to monitor the latest advances in reproductive medicine research and apply promising technologies to clinical practice to provide higher-quality services to patients.
2025.07.22
2024 Academic Publications
The Relationship Between Post-Thaw Blastocyst Re-Expansion and IVF Pregnancy Outcomes
Presented by NUWA Fertility at the 2024 Taiwan Society for Reproductive Medicine (TSRM)

At the 2024 TSRM annual meeting, NUWA Fertility presented a study exploring the association between blastocyst re-expansion after thawing and subsequent implantation and pregnancy success. The findings provide valuable insights for refining embryo selection criteria in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles.

Background: Does Post-Thaw Expansion Matter?

With advancements in vitrification, the success rate of frozen embryo transfers has significantly improved. However, following thawing, blastocysts undergo a period of re-expansion, which may reflect their viability.

This study aimed to evaluate whether the degree of blastocyst expansion after thawing is correlated with implantation potential and overall pregnancy outcomes.

Key Finding: Fully re-expanded blastocysts had higher pregnancy rates compared to partially or non-expanded ones.

Results: Full Re-Expansion Indicates Greater Implantation Potential
The study clearly demonstrated that fully re-expanded blastocysts post-thaw showed significantly higher clinical pregnancy rates compared to those that were only partially expanded or not expanded at all.

This highlights post-thaw morphological recovery as an important marker of embryo viability and implantation potential.

Interestingly, the study also found that medication protocols and the presence of minor bleeding at the time of transfer had no significant impact on pregnancy rates—further reinforcing the importance of embryo quality and recovery behavior over external factors.

Clinical Implications: Re-Expansion as a Key Morphological Indicator
These findings suggest that embryologists and clinicians should carefully evaluate the degree of blastocyst expansion after thawing when selecting embryos for transfer.
Incomplete or delayed re-expansion may indicate underlying embryo quality issues or suboptimal vitrification processes, warranting additional caution during selection.

NUWA Fertility will continue to monitor and evaluate key post-thaw indicators to improve embryo selection strategies.
By focusing on morphological recovery after thawing, we aim to deliver more effective and personalized FET protocols, ultimately helping more patients achieve successful pregnancies.
2025.07.18
2024 Academic Publications
Embryo Selection in IVF: Integrating AI Scoring Systems with Traditional Morphology Assessment
Presented by NUWA Fertility at the 2024 European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE)

At the 2024 ESHRE annual meeting, NUWA Fertility presented a study comparing AI-based embryo scoring systems (iDAScore® v2.0 and KIDScore™ D5 v3.2) with traditional morphological evaluation in the context of single euploid blastocyst transfer. The goal was to identify the most effective strategy for selecting the embryo with the highest implantation potential.

Background: Optimizing Single Euploid Embryo Transfer Success
Once a chromosomally normal (euploid) embryo is identified through PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy), the next challenge is selecting the embryo with the greatest implantation potential.

This study compared the predictive value of several embryo selection tools—including AI-driven scoring systems and conventional morphology grading—in order to improve the success rate of single embryo transfer (SET).

Research question: Which embryo selection tool performs best for single euploid blastocyst transfers: iDAScore® v2.0, KIDScore™ D5 v3.2, or traditional morphological grading?

Findings: The Power of Integrating AI and Morphokinetics
The study found that integrating AI scoring systems, morphokinetic data, and traditional embryology provides a viable and potentially superior strategy for embryo selection in IVF.

AI scoring systems (such as iDAScore® and KIDScore™) offer objective, standardized evaluations.
Morphokinetic data provide insights into early embryo development dynamics. Embryologist expertise adds a layer of clinical context and judgment. Combining these tools may lead to more comprehensive assessments of implantation potential, ultimately improving the success of single euploid embryo transfers.

Clinical Implications: Advancing Toward Precision Embryo Selection
This research supports a new direction in embryo selection:
By integrating AI tools, time-lapse developmental data, and traditional morphological assessment, IVF clinics can enhance consistency, objectivity, and efficiency in embryo selection.

NUWA Fertility remains committed to applying the latest technologies in embryology, offering patients more precise and personalized IVF treatment strategies to improve their chances of success.
2025.07.16
2024 Academic Publications
Enhancing Pregnancy Rates After PGS: The Importance of Time Between Trophectoderm Biopsy and Embryo Freezing
Presented by NUWA Fertility at the 2024 Taiwan Society for Reproductive Medicine (TSRM)

At the 2024 TSRM annual meeting, NUWA Fertility presented a study investigating whether the interval between trophectoderm biopsy and vitrification influences pregnancy outcomes for high-quality blastocysts (graded BB or above) that have undergone preimplantation genetic screening (PGS).

Background: Timing Considerations in Post-PGS Embryo Freezing
Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) is a powerful tool for selecting chromosomally normal embryos, which improves IVF success rates.

During PGS, a trophectoderm biopsy is performed on the blastocyst. This study aimed to explore whether allowing the embryo to recover in culture for a few hours after biopsy, prior to freezing, might yield better pregnancy outcomes compared to immediate vitrification.

Key Finding: Delaying Freezing for 3+ Hours May Improve Pregnancy Rates

This retrospective study analyzed single euploid embryo transfers using PGS-normal embryos graded BB or above.

Preliminary results suggest that freezing the embryo more than 3 hours after biopsy may be associated with a higher pregnancy rate compared to embryos that were frozen immediately following biopsy.

This finding implies that a brief post-biopsy culture period may allow the embryo time to stabilize or recover, potentially improving post-thaw implantation potential.
However, the research team emphasized that larger-scale studies are needed to confirm this trend due to current sample size limitations.

Clinical Significance: A Potential Step Toward Optimizing Post-PGS Embryo Handling

These preliminary findings highlight a potential direction for optimizing lab protocols following PGS.

If future research confirms the benefits of extending culture time after biopsy, clinics may develop refined embryo handling workflows to further improve implantation and pregnancy success after PGS-based frozen embryo transfer.

NUWA Fertility continues to advance research in embryology and IVF optimization.
By translating the latest findings into clinical practice, we aim to offer patients higher-quality care and better outcomes throughout their fertility journey.
2025.07.11
2024 Academic Publications
Improving Frozen Embryo Transfer Outcomes: A Comparative Study on Endometrial Preparation Protocols and Their Impact on Pregnancy and Neonatal Outcomes
Presented by NUWA Fertility at the 2024 Taiwan Society for Reproductive Medicine (TSRM)

At the 2024 TSRM annual meeting, NUWA Fertility presented a retrospective study comparing pregnancy and neonatal outcomes following frozen embryo transfers (FET) of euploid embryos, using different endometrial preparation protocols.
This research offers valuable clinical insight into selecting the most appropriate preparation method for individual patients undergoing FET.

Background: Choosing the Right Endometrial Preparation Method
In FET cycles, proper endometrial preparation is critical to successful implantation. Common clinical approaches include:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
True Natural Cycle (tNC)
Modified Natural Cycle (mNC)
This study aimed to assess whether these different protocols affect pregnancy rates, live birth rates, and neonatal health outcomes when transferring embryos confirmed as chromosomally normal via preimplantation genetic testing.

Study Results: Performance Trends Across Protocols
The study analyzed data from 366 patients treated between April 2021 and June 2023:
HRT group (n = 165)
tNC group (n = 82)
mNC group (n = 119)
Primary Outcomes:

Outcome HRT tNC mNC
Implantation Rate 66% 73% 70%
Clinical Pregnancy Rate 66% 73% 66%
Live Birth Rate 57% 68% 60%
Miscarriage Rate 14% 7% 10%
While the three groups showed no statistically significant differences in implantation or clinical pregnancy rates, a notable trend was observed:

The tNC group had the highest live birth rate (68%) and lowest miscarriage rate (7%), suggesting potential advantages—especially in younger patients with regular ovulatory cycles.

Neonatal Outcomes: No Significant Differences Among Protocols

The study also evaluated neonatal outcomes, including birth weight and overall newborn health.
Results indicated no significant differences between groups, suggesting that the choice of endometrial preparation protocol does not adversely impact neonatal health.

Conclusion & Clinical Implications: Toward More Personalized Care
This study concludes that while overall differences in clinical outcomes among the protocols were minimal, the true natural cycle (tNC) protocol showed favorable trends in live birth and miscarriage rates. These trends were more pronounced in younger patients with normal ovulation.

The findings support a personalized medicine approach, offering clinicians evidence-based guidance when selecting an endometrial preparation strategy—taking into account age, ovulatory function, and patient preferences to optimize outcomes.

At NUWA Fertility, we continue to monitor the latest research and apply evidence-based practices to tailor endometrial preparation protocols to each patient’s unique physiology and goals.
Through precision medicine and compassionate care, our aim is to maximize the success of frozen embryo transfers and help more families realize their dreams of parenthood.
2025.07.08
2023 Academic Publications
A New Option in Sperm Testing: The Potential of Taiwan-Made LensHooke® X1 PRO in Fertility Assessment
Presented by NUWA Fertility at the 2023 Taiwan Society for Reproductive Medicine (TSRM)

At the 2023 TSRM annual meeting, NUWA Fertility presented a study evaluating the performance of the Taiwan-made LensHooke® X1 PRO, a new computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) system.
The results showed a high correlation between the X1 PRO and traditional manual microscopic semen analysis, suggesting strong potential for clinical use as a reliable alternative diagnostic tool.

Background: Enhancing the Objectivity and Efficiency of Semen Analysis

Semen analysis is a crucial component of evaluating male fertility.
While traditional manual microscopic analysis is widely accepted and considered accurate, it is subject to operator variability and subjective interpretation.

The emergence of CASA (Computer-Assisted Semen Analysis) systems aims to improve both efficiency and objectivity. This study assessed the reliability of the LensHooke® X1 PRO, comparing its results with those of manual semen analysis.

Methods: Evaluating the Consistency, Sensitivity, and Accuracy of X1 PRO
The research team compared semen parameters measured by the LensHooke® X1 PRO CASA system and manual microscopic semen analysis, assessing: Correlation, Consistency, Sensitivity, Specificity, Overall accuracy.

Key semen parameters such as sperm concentration, motility, and morphology were rigorously analyzed to determine performance alignment between the two methods.

Results: High Agreement Between LensHooke® X1 PRO and Manual Analysis
The study found that the LensHooke® X1 PRO showed strong consistency with manual semen analysis across multiple semen quality parameters.

Notably, at specific diagnostic thresholds, the X1 PRO demonstrated high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy, indicating that it is reliable for identifying abnormal semen samples.

Clinical Implications: X1 PRO as a Promising Alternative for Semen Diagnostics
The study’s findings suggest that the Taiwan-made LensHooke® X1 PRO delivers consistent and reliable results comparable to manual analysis, and performs well under specific clinical conditions.

This indicates strong potential for X1 PRO to serve as a trusted alternative in clinical semen diagnostics, enhancing workflow efficiency and reducing subjectivity in fertility assessments.

The research team emphasized the need for further studies to validate X1 PRO’s full clinical value in the context of male fertility evaluation.

NUWA Fertility remains committed to advancing diagnostic technologies in reproductive medicine.
We continue to evaluate next-generation CASA systems, such as LensHooke® X1 PRO, to provide patients with more accurate, efficient, and comprehensive male fertility assessment services.
2025.07.03
2023 Academic Publications
TSRM 2023: For Non-Male Factor Infertility, Conventional IVF Performs Similarly to ICSI
Presented by NUWA Fertility at the 2023 Taiwan Society for Reproductive Medicine (TSRM)

At the 2023 TSRM annual meeting, NUWA Fertility presented a study comparing conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF) with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in couples with non-male factor infertility.

The research found no significant differences between the two fertilization methods across multiple embryo development indicators.

Background: Choosing a Fertilization Method in Non-Male Factor Infertility

In IVF treatment for couples with non-male factor infertility, whether ICSI should be routinely used remains a debated topic.

This study aimed to provide clarity by analyzing sibling oocytes from the same patient cohort, dividing them into two groups—one fertilized using conventional IVF, and the other using ICSI—to compare embryonic development outcomes.

Key Objective: Compare ICSI and IVF outcomes using sibling oocytes in couples without male infertility factors.

Study Results: IVF and ICSI Show Similar Outcomes in Non-Male Factor Cases
For couples without male factor infertility, the study compared outcomes between conventional IVF and ICSI using the same batch of eggs. The indicators assessed included:
2PN (Two-Pronuclei) Rate – marker of normal fertilization
Day 5 Blastocyst Formation Rate
Total Blastocyst Formation Rate
Top-Quality Embryo Rate
Euploidy Rate (based on PGS results)
The findings showed no statistically significant differences across all parameters.
This clearly suggests that routine use of ICSI in non-male factor cases does not provide additional benefit over conventional IVF.

Clinical Significance: Conventional IVF Can Be a Preferred First-Line Approach

The key conclusion of this study is that for patients without male factor infertility, ICSI offers no clear clinical advantage over traditional IVF.

In such cases, conventional IVF—which more closely mimics natural fertilization—may be considered the preferred first-line option. This approach could reduce both treatment costs and unnecessary invasive procedures.

NUWA Fertility is committed to providing individualized treatment strategies based on the latest clinical research.

For patients with non-male factor infertility, we carefully assess each case and engage in open, informed discussions to determine the most suitable and effective fertilization method—ultimately improving IVF outcomes and supporting every couple’s journey toward parenthood.
2025.07.01
2022 Academic Publications
New Perspectives on Embryo Chromosomal Abnormalities: Can Pronuclear Formation Timing Serve as a Predictive Marker?
Presented by NUWA Fertility at the 2022 Taiwan Society for Reproductive Medicine (TSRM)

At the 2022 TSRM annual meeting, NUWA Fertility presented a study examining whether the timing of two-pronuclei (2PN) formation in early embryo development correlates with later embryo chromosomal normalcy. This research offers a new perspective on predicting chromosomal abnormalities in embryos.

Background: Exploring the Link Between Early Embryo Development and Chromosomal Abnormalities

Preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) has become a powerful tool for increasing IVF success rates by identifying embryos with normal chromosomal content. One major research focus in reproductive medicine is determining whether characteristics observed during early embryonic development can predict chromosomal status.

This study specifically explores whether the timing of 2PN formation—after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)—is associated with euploid or aneuploid outcomes at the blastocyst stage.

Key Insight:
Early embryo development may not strongly correlate with chromosomal normalcy or abnormality.

Methods & Results: No Significant Correlation Found Between Early Development Timing and Chromosomal Status

The research team analyzed morphokinetic parameters of embryo development to evaluate whether specific early time points could be used as predictors of chromosomal status.
Overall, the data revealed no clear correlation between the timing of 2PN formation and whether the resulting blastocyst was euploid (chromosomally normal) or aneuploid (chromosomally abnormal).

However, the researchers also noted that within certain age groups, morphokinetic data may still inform individualized decision-making in embryo selection.

Clinical Significance: A More Comprehensive View of Embryo Potential

This study highlights the importance of not relying solely on early developmental timing to evaluate an embryo’s implantation potential.
Chromosomal status is a complex and multifactorial issue influenced by various biological factors.

Future research should integrate morphological assessment, time-lapse (morphokinetic) data, and genetic testing results to more accurately assess embryo viability and guide embryo selection—ultimately improving IVF outcomes.

NUWA Fertility remains dedicated to advancing the understanding of the many factors that influence embryo development and chromosomal health.
By applying cutting-edge research to clinical practice, we aim to deliver more precise and personalized IVF treatment strategies, helping patients achieve better outcomes on their fertility journey.
2025.06.27
2023 Academic Publications
Rethinking Hyaluronic Acid Concentration in Embryo Transfer Media and Its Impact on Implantation Rates
Presented by NUWA Fertility at the 2023 Taiwan Society for Reproductive Medicine (TSRM)

At the 2023 TSRM annual meeting, NUWA Fertility presented an oral research study investigating the relationship between hyaluronic acid (HA) concentration in embryo transfer media and implantation rates during frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. The study challenges the long-held assumption that higher concentrations of HA significantly improve implantation outcomes.

Background: The Role of Hyaluronic Acid in Embryo Implantation
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is commonly added to embryo transfer media due to its viscosity-enhancing and cell-adhesion-promoting properties, which are thought to facilitate better interaction between the embryo and the endometrium, potentially improving implantation success.

However, existing research remains inconclusive regarding the optimal HA concentration. This study aimed to determine whether varying concentrations of HA in transfer media have a significant impact on implantation rates in frozen embryo transfer cycles.

Key Insight: Higher HA concentration in transfer media does not necessarily correlate with improved implantation outcomes.

Study Findings: No Significant Correlation Between HA Concentration and Implantation Rate
The research team analyzed FET cycles using transfer media with different HA concentrations.
Results showed no significant difference in implantation rates between groups using low versus high concentrations of HA. This suggests that simply increasing the HA content in transfer media may not effectively enhance implantation success for frozen embryos.

Further Analysis: The Role of Post-Thaw Culture Duration
The study also examined whether the length of post-thaw embryo culture time influenced implantation outcomes.

In the low-HA group, extending culture time did not significantly improve implantation rates.

In the high-HA group, a slight trend toward higher implantation rates was observed with extended culture time—but this trend did not reach statistical significance and requires further validation in larger studies.

Clinical Implications: A More Balanced Perspective on HA Use in Embryo Transfer

These findings encourage both clinicians and patients to adopt a more evidence-based and cautious approach to the use of HA in embryo transfer media.

Pursuing higher HA concentrations alone may not be the key factor in improving frozen embryo implantation outcomes.

Future studies are needed to better understand the biological mechanisms of HA in implantation, explore potential individual patient differences, and establish evidence-based guidelines to guide clinical practice in embryo transfer preparation.

NUWA Fertility remains dedicated to advancing embryo transfer technologies and optimizing IVF outcomes.

By grounding clinical decisions in rigorous scientific research, we aim to provide patients with the most effective, individualized fertility care possible.
2025.06.25

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