MCE1112

Embryo culture & cryopreservation

(MED)

Professor A Bongso & Dr J Shaw

6 points + 6 weeks (first 5 weeks - two 1-hour lectures, 1-hour tutorial, 1.5-hour seminar, 1.5-hour journal review), 2-hour revision tutorial in week 6 + IRD + MMC + First semester

Synopsis: Examines the importance of the IVF laboratory and various in vitro systems used to generate viable embryos that will ensure optimal pregnancy rates for childless couples. Emphasis will be given to the guidelines for setting up a sterile IVF laboratory, cell and cell-free culture systems, embryo quality, scoring and selection, embryo metabolism, and the quality control procedures. Students also gain information about the cryopreservation and transplantation skills and techniques. On completion of this unit students will possess a sound theoretical knowledge and understanding of the techniques required for generating good quality day 2 and day 5-6 embryos for transfer in human IVF.

Assessment: Written examination (1.5 hours): 50% + Presentation of journal review: 20% + Essay(2500 words): 30%