The Use of an Innovative Culture System to Maintain a Variety of Atmospheric Conditions.

Abstract

Introduction: Much debate still surrounds the ideal pH and atmospheric conditions human embryos require for optimal implantation potential. Since our first report on human blastocyst development in a reduced O2 environment, renewed interest has developed in this area of embryology. The main limitation to application of this approach is that the majority of IVF laboratories do not have the equipment (i.e. O2 incubators) to regulate O2 or the ability to frequently adjust and maintain different CO2 concentrations. It is almost certain that as we learn more about the human embryo, optimal in vitro requirements will change. Changing major equipment as new information is gained is both costly and impractical. We tested the use of an innovative culture bag system that can facilitate changing atmospheric conditions without the need to change incubator type.