Chapter 21 - Embryo culture in the twenty-first century

Summary

This chapter considers the parameters important for embryo culture and analysis, and looks at the future of embryo culture systems. In contemplating the future of embryo culture systems, a very valuable initial exercise is to consider the constraints that are likely to shape future developments. One of the fundamental guiding principles for culture systems is to provide conditions that promote both optimal development to the blastocyst stage and maximal pregnancy rates. Another consideration for current and future culture systems is to avoid or minimize the exposure of embryos to conditions that are toxic or stressful. From the advent of the culture of preimplantation, mammalian embryos analysis has been an integral part of the process. One of the most exciting prospects for microfluidic culture platforms is that many mature analytical technologies are available that can be readily incorporated into chips.