Scientists have, for the first time, recorded a human embryo implanting in real time using a system that mimics the uterine environment. The breakthrough offers new insights into fertility and assisted reproduction.
Until now, implantation in humans could only be studied through still images. The new method, developed at the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), uses fluorescence imaging to capture the process in 3D.
“Although it is known that many women experience abdominal pain and slight bleeding during implantation, the process itself had never been observed before,” said lead author Samuel Ojosnegros, head of IBEC’s Bioengineering for Reproductive Health group.
Researchers found that embryos exert traction forces as they implant, pulling and reorganising their surroundings. “We observe that the embryo pulls on the uterine matrix, moving and reorganising it. It also reacts to external force cues,” said co-author Amélie Godeau.
The findings could improve in vitro fertilisation (IVF) success rates. “Our platform has enabled us to quantify the dynamics of embryo implantation and determine the mechanical footprint of the forces used in this complex process in real time,” said Anna Seriola, co-first author.