Fertilization signatures as biomarkers of embryo quality

Abstract

Fertilization underpins the vital transition from gametic meiosis to embryonic mitosis. For decades, in human IVF, microscopic observation at a single time point has limited our appreciation of the morphokinetic complexity of this process. More recently, the introduction of time lapse technology-also enhanced by combination with artificial intelligence-has revealed the finest morphokinetic details of the beginning of human development. Overall, a picture has finally emerged in which the precise timing, morphology and geometry of several fertilization events offer clues to predict the fate of the embryo-a key aspect of assisted reproduction. In this scenario, correct unfolding of intra- and interpronuclear rearrangements emerge as a crucial factor to create a platform able to preserve genetic and cellular integrity at the first mitotic cleavage.

Keywords: embryo; fertilization; meiosis; mitosis; morphokinetics; oocyte; spermatozoon; time-lapse.