(A kutatást Humán Reprodukciós Nemzeti Laboratórium RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00012.10 számú
projekt keretében valósult meg.)
(TKP2021-EGA-17) Támogató: NKFIH
(GINOP-2.3.4-15-2020-00010)
(2.3.1-20-2020-00001) Támogató: GINOP
Objective: Early embryonic development is characterized by rapid cell
division and gene activation, making the embryo extremely sensitive to environmental
influences. Light exposure can affect embryonic development through a direct toxic
effect on the embryo via the generation of reactive oxygen species. In a previous
study, we demonstrated the positive effect of improved light-protected embryo culture
conditions implemented in our laboratory. This study aimed to investigate the changes
in human embryo development under light protection during the conventional in vitro
fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Materials and
Methods: We tested the potential beneficial effect of light filters to reduce
the risk of toxic effects of light. IVF outcomes were compared between two experimental
conditions, light protection with red light filters versus no light protection as
a control. Results: Blastocyst development rate in IVF was significantly
higher in the light-protected group than in the group treated under conventional conditions
(46.6 vs. 26.7%). In the case of ICSI, we obtained a similar result (44.5 vs. 31.6%).
The rate of cryopreservation with at least one embryo was higher in the light-protected
phase (32.8%) than in the conventionally manipulated phase (26.8%). The abortion rate
was also significantly lower during the light-protected period in IVF, resulting in
a higher live birth rate. Conclusions: The implementation of light protection
to reduce the embryotoxic wavelengths of light in IVF centers may improve the blastocyst
development rate and embryo quality while maintaining embryo safety.