Advanced Sperm Selection Techniques
All IVF cycles at Bavishi fertility institute are ICSI cycles; this allows our expert embryologists to select the best sperm based on their motility and morphology (structure).
However, sperms that look good under the microscope may have DNA damage or reduced fertilizing capacity. Medical illnesses like diabetes can also reduce the fertilizing capacity of sperm. Patients with suspected or patients who previously show poor fertilization with IVF or ICSI are good candidates for Advanced sperm selection techniques.
Various techniques select sperms based on various functional features such as the ability to connect to oocytes like membranes, apoptotic markers (markers that signal cell death) or a more detailed structure evaluation.
The state of the sperm DNA, the ability of the sperm to connect to oocytes like membranes, the presence in the membrane of certain apoptotic markers and indicators of sperm maturity, and more detailed structural evaluation by IMSI procedure could be used to help identify the best sperm.
What is MACS (Magentic-activated cell sorting?)
The MACS technique separates apoptotic sperm cells from normal sperms. Apoptosis is a process by which a cell destroys itself at the end of its life cycle. In MACS, damaged apoptotic sperm is labeled with magnetic nanoparticles, and then they are put through a column, where the apoptotic sperm is captured.
Intact live sperm flow through the column and are collected to fertilize oocytes.
Recent research data evidence of meta-analysis shows that MACS do not improve embryo implantation.
How MACS Works?
MACS operates on the principle of utilizing magnetic fields to selectively isolate and separate cells based on specific characteristics. During IVF, this process is employed to enhance the quality of sperm and embryos used in the fertilization process. By targeting and enriching the desired cell populations, MACS helps optimize the chances of successful fertilization and embryo development.
Principle of Magnetic Cell Sorting
Cells possess inherent magnetic properties that can be exploited for sorting purposes. MACS relies on specialized magnetic beads or nanoparticles that bind to target cells of interest. When subjected to a magnetic field, these tagged cells can be selectively separated from the rest of the sample, allowing for precise isolation and enrichment of desired cell populations.
For whom MACS is recommended?
MACS is particularly recommended for couples undergoing IVF treatment who may benefit from the enhanced selection of high-quality sperm and embryos. It is especially advantageous for individuals with specific fertility challenges or those seeking to minimize the risk of genetic abnormalities in their offspring.
Advantages of Using MACS
The integration of MACS technology offers several significant advantages in the realm of IVF treatment:
- Enhanced selection of high-quality sperm and embryos
- Potential Reduction in genetic abnormalities and miscarriage rates
- Potential Improved success rates in IVF cycles
- Minimization of risk to embryos during the selection process
Disadvantages of Using MACS
While MACS offers substantial benefits, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks as well:
- Cost implications for patients undergoing MACS treatment.
- Technical complexity and expertise required for implementation.
- Potential limitations in certain cases or conditions.
- Most of the recent data do not show added advantage of using MACS over routine IVF & ICSI
FAQ
The success rate of IVF treatments can vary depending on various factors, including the specific circumstances of the individuals or couples undergoing treatment. However, studies have shown that incorporating MACS technology into IVF procedures can significantly improve success rates by enhancing the quality of sperm and embryos used in the process.
The MACS procedure typically takes a few hours to complete, depending on the specific protocols and techniques employed by our fertility specialists. Patients can expect to spend a full day at our clinic for the procedure, including pre-treatment assessments and post-procedure monitoring.
While MACS technology can benefit many individuals or couples undergoing IVF treatment, there may be specific eligibility criteria based on individual medical histories, fertility challenges, or treatment goals.
MACS process is done on semen sample, there is no procedure on patient. The recovery process after undergoing MACS treatment is typically straightforward, with minimal discomfort or downtime. Patients may experience mild soreness or discomfort at the site of blood collection, but this usually resolves quickly.