[Analysis of the zona pellucida in human oocytes and embryos in an assisted reproduction program].

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to design simple method for quantitative evaluation of oocyte and embryo morphology in in vitro fertilization (IVF) programme efforting of embryo implantation prediction to be able to set the optimal number of embryos for transfer for given specific case. This study deals with zona pellucida (ZP)--the one interesting and for oocyte unique structure. The work is the part of comprehensive research of oocyte, zygote and embryo morphology.

DESIGN

Prospective study.

SETTING

Center of Assisted Reproduction, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Medical Faculty of Charles University, Pilsen.

METHODS

The study includes analysis of 66 microphotography pictures of oocytes, zygotes and embryos of patients who were treated by IVF on our department between September and December 2000. The microphotographs were taken by digital microphotographic system. Analysis of zona pellucida parameters was conducted by image analysis software called AnalySIS, Soft Imaging System GmbH.

RESULTS

It was found out the average width of the zona pellucida 18.4 microns +/- 2.1 microns, the minimum width was 12.3 microns a maximum 23.1 microns.

CONCLUSION

There was found significant narrower zona pellucida in women who conceived in this IVF cycle then in the women who did not.