The University of Barcelona is participating in a project to promote a genomic test to improve embryo selection in assisted reproduction
Preimplantation genetic diagnosis to detect alterations in chromosome numbers is a key process in assisted reproduction, as it allows the selection of embryos with higher implantation potential and reduces the risk of spontaneous abortions or developmental abnormalities during pregnancy.
Researchers from the University of Barcelona are part of a new public-private consortium, led by Yikon Genomics, to develop a non-invasive genomic screening technique —which avoids direct manipulation of the embryo— with the aim of improving current procedures and facilitating accessibility. The Bernabeu Institute, a leading center in reproductive medicine, is also part of the consortium.
“Current preimplantation genetic diagnosis methods for identifying chromosomal abnormalities have significant limitations, highlighting the need to promote collaborative efforts to develop more advanced technologies,” explains Dr. Alfons Navarro Ponz, professor in the Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, who coordinates UB’s participation in the consortium. “This project aims to offer a transformative alternative that improves existing approaches, with the ultimate goal of increasing the success rates of assisted reproduction treatments and facilitating access to this type of screening for a broader population,” he adds.
Analysis of Embryonic Exosomes
The consortium’s innovative approach is based on the development of a preimplantation genomic test that will non-invasively analyze the genomic DNA load contained in exosomes —extracellular vesicles released by the embryo’s own cells— present in embryo culture media, that is, the fluid in which the embryo develops during its first days before implantation. “By eliminating the need for biopsies, the risks associated with embryo manipulation are reduced, contributing to greater safety for both the embryos and the patients undergoing assisted reproduction techniques,” notes the UB researcher.
This approach will also improve the detection of embryonic mosaicism, a genetic condition in which the embryo has a mix of chromosomally normal and abnormal cells, reducing its implantation and pregnancy potential. “By analyzing the genetic material released by all the embryo’s cells, the new technique provides a more comprehensive assessment of its chromosomal status, minimizing issues related to mosaicism during the embryo selection process,” emphasizes Dr. Navarro.
Furthermore, this is an analytical procedure that, unlike traditional methods based on embryo biopsies, does not require highly complex equipment or extremely specialized personnel, facilitating its implementation in a larger number of centers. “This adaptability will allow advanced genetic screening methods not to be limited to highly specialized centers, increasing their clinical impact and significantly reducing the economic costs of the process,” highlights the researcher.
A Joint Effort Between Academia, Clinic, and Industry
During the project’s development, the research team will design the genomic analysis protocol and validate it by comparing the results obtained with the diagnostic procedures currently used in clinical practice —both invasive and non-invasive— a process requiring close coordination between the different participating entities.
Given the complexity of this technological and clinical challenge, Dr. Navarro’s team at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences of UB contributes its expertise in the study of extracellular vesicles and in methodologies for isolation, purification, and characterization, which are fundamental for developing the project’s scientific foundation.
The Bernabeu Institute, under the direction of Drs. Belén Lledó and Andrea Bernabeu, scientific and medical directors respectively, contributes its clinical experience in embryo culture and handling, as well as providing samples and leading sequencing and data analysis, ensuring quality and reliability.
Finally, Yikon Genomics S.L., under the direction of Dr. Bing Han, leads the initiative by contributing expertise in whole genome amplification, genomic libraries, and bioinformatic development, in addition to its ChromGo® analysis tool, which is key to integrating and interpreting results. This complementary set of capabilities enables joint progress in developing an innovative solution transferable to clinical practice.
The project, entitled “Advancing assisted reproduction: unveiling the future of fertility by developing a new non-invasive preimplantation genomic test for enhanced live birth rates analysing extracellular vesicle gDNA in embryo culture medium”, has a duration of three years and the reference CPP2024-011546. The University of Barcelona has received funding of €125,220 within the framework of the 2024 public-private collaboration project call, funded by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, the State Research Agency, and FEDER funds.