Description

Embryo biopsy: How to implement a successful PGT program

Blastocyst culture, biopsy and cryopreservation

Aims and Goals of the Course:

To understand fundamental principles of blastocyst culture, biopsy, genetic diagnosis, and cryopreservation techniques. To have an overview of current experiences and outcomes and acquire experience on how to setup and manage a successful Day-5 culture program. To have intensive hands-on in blastocysts biopsy (and cleavage stage if needed) applying the “pulling” and the “flicking” method on an unlimited number of blastocyst at different expansion stages. Hands-on training includes vitrification and warming of biopsied embryos and tubing of the cells for genetic analysis. We will discuss and experiment on how to manage warmed biopsied blastocysts before transfer.

Scientific Program:

Theoretical Sessions (30-45 min duration):

• “Using Laser Technology in IVF procedures” by Klaus Rink, PhD
• “Current methods used for PGD and PGS: applications” by Dagan Wells, PhD
• “Practical tips and tricks in biopsy procedures” by Nuno Costa Borges

Hands-On Sessions:

• Preparation of biopsy and embryo culture dishes
• Setting up of the microscope and the laser
• Biopsy of early, expanded and fully hatched blastocysts using the “pulling” and the “flicking” techniques with unlimited samples and live demonstration for each case
• Preparation of material for the tubing of the biopsied cells genetic analysis
• Cryopreservation, thawing and culture of blastocysts after biopsy
• Laser AH in thawed blastocysts
• Validation of the number of cells biopsied under an epifluorescence microscope
• Video recording and photos of the procedures performed

Team of embryologists providing the training:
Embryotools Team (Gloria Calderón, PhD; Nuno Costa-Borges, PhD; Enric Mestres, MSc; Ivette Vanrell, MSc; María García, MSc and Mònica Acacio, Msc)

Invited experts (Dr. Klaus Rink first developer of the laser systems for IVF; Dr. Dagan Well pioneer in the development of molecular techniques for pre-implantation diagnosis)

Certificate of attendance will be awarded to participants completing the workshop for a total of 24 hours

Dates: June 9th to 11th (from 10h a.m. –18h a.m.)

Prices:  2750 Euros (+ VAT if applicable)

Location:
Embryotools’ Laboratories
Avenida Doctor Marañón, 8
Parc Científic de Barcelona
Barcelona ‑SPAIN