Embryology Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Embryology, including details on stem cells, reproduction, transplants, cloning.

Light exposure of the ovum and preimplantation embryo during ART procedures.

Ottosen LD, Hindkjær J, Ingerslev J

The Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Aarhus University Hospital Skejby Sygehus, Brendstrupgaardsvej 8200 Århus N, Århus, Denmark, Lars.ottosen@ki.au.dk.

Exposure to visible light (400-700 nm wavelengths) is an unnatural stress factor to preimplantation embryos cultured in vitro. This study investigated the spectral composition and intensity of light during IVF procedures, and calculated radiation doses reaching the embryo during handling and manipulation. The study shows that normal IVF procedure may result in stressing radiation doses, unless filters are applied. This is at present not sufficiently recognised. No Danish IVF clinics use filters to protect embryos against visible light. 95% of the radiation was from microscopes. Ambient light, in contrast, was not a significant contributor to light stress and the use of dark laboratories is not justified.

Published 11 January 2007 in J Assist Reprod Genet.
Full-text of this article is available online (may require subscription).

© 2005-2008 Embryology Research Today. All Rights Reserved.