Spindle View: GPS Localization of Egg Spindles

The spindle apparatus plays a crucial role in the process of cell division, as it orchestrates the movement of chromosomes. Any damage to the spindle can adversely affect embryonic development or result in chromosomal abnormalities. Before an embryologist performs intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), the position of the spindle within the egg (ovum) is determined using Spindle View. Today, Lee Women’s Hospital introduces the role and applicability of Spindle View in the context of IVF.
 

What are Spindles?

Before delving into the details of Spindle View, let’s review what spindles are. Spindles are part of the intracellular cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells. In reproduction, spindles play a vital role in cell division, particularly during mitosis and meiosis processes.
 

The Role of Spindles in Cell Division

Mitosis	Meiosis
Spindles are responsible for the precise separation and distribution of chromosomes from the parent cell into two daughter cells, ensuring that each daughter cell receives the correct number of chromosomes.	Reproductive cells generate gametes (sperm or eggs) through cell division, and the chromosome count in gametes is half of the parent cell. Spindles ensure the accurate segregation of chromosomes into  daughter cells.

The function of spindles is essential for maintaining genomic stability and ensuring accurate transmission of genetic material during cell division and reproduction. Defects or abnormalities in spindle formation or function can result in incorrect chromosome segregation, leading to chromosomal abnormalities and genetic diseases.

In summary, spindles are crucial for cell division and reproduction, aiding in the accurate separation and distribution of chromosomes and ensuring the fidelity of genetic information.
 

Spindle View: The Guardian of IVF

Spindle View is a method that utilizes specialized polarized light microscopy and computer software to observe the spindles within the egg. This technique allows embryologists to determine the position and orientation of the spindles before fertilization. By carefully locating the injection site for sperm while observing the egg spindle, embryologists can avoid damaging the spindle and increase the fertilization rates. The use of Spindle View is often combined with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), a procedure that involves directly injecting a single sperm into an egg.

Overall, the purpose of Spindle View in IVF is to optimize the fertilization process by ensuring accurate sperm-egg interaction, thereby enhancing embryo quality and increasing the chances of pregnancy. It is an important technique that maximizes the success rate of assisted reproduction technologies.

Learn more about the principles and characteristics of Spindle View:
How does Spindle View precisely locate the spindle?
 

Applicability of Spindle View in IVF

• Advanced maternal age: Women of advanced maternal age (generally over 38 years old) may have a higher risk of spindle deviations due to age-related factors. In such cases, Spindle View may be beneficial in optimizing the chances of successful fertilization and embryo development.
• Previous failed IVF treatment: Couples who have experienced multiples failed IVF treatment or unsuccessful fertilization attempts may  benefit from Spindle View to increase the chances of successful fertilization and embryo development.
• Other individual factors: Other individual factors, such as specific reproductive diagnoses or issues related to egg quality, may also require the use of Spindle View. Each patient’s situation is unique, and the decision to adopt Spindle View should be discussed with your attending physician to evaluate your circumstances and determine its potential benefits.

 

Lee Women’s Hospital’s Commitment to Spindle View

Since 2006, Lee Women’s Hospital has been at the forefront of introducing the application of Spindle View in the field of IVF in Taiwan. As the cost of a Spindle View device can be as high as one million dollars, not all reproductive centers in the country possess this equipment and expertise. Currently, Lee Women’s Hospital has three Spindle View devices dedicated to IVF procedure, aiming to provide the opportunity for infertile couples.
 

Research on Spindle View at Lee Women’s Hospital

In 2017, our team conducted a study involving patients whose previous ICSI IVF treatment cycles had a fertilization rate of less than 50%. In the subsequent treatment cycles, they incorporated Spindle View alongside ICSI, significantly improving the fertilization rate. Statistical analysis revealed that eggs from patients aged 38 and above had a higher rate of spindle deviation from the first polar body. Therefore, the use of Spindle View combined with ICSI for older women can greatly enhance the fertilization rate.

Detailed research on Spindle View:
The Impact of Spidle Deviation Angle on Fertilization and Embryo Quality in Woman aged 38 and above

Lee Women’s Hospital boasts a strong team of professor-level infertility specialists with extensive clinical experience. They collaborate with a skilled and competent embryologist team, utilizing the advanced equipment and instruments in the lab. Whether it’s for older women or any challenging infertility issues, Lee Women’s Hospital can provide effective solutions to achieve your reproductive goals.
 

Successful Cases of IVF with Spindle View:

Successful pregnancy at the age of 36 through Spindle View
Overcoming ovarian insufficiency with difficulty conceiving through Spindle View
Helping couples with repeated IVF failures through Spindle View

Reference: (2017, Aug). The effects of meiotic spindle deviation angles on fertilization and embryo quality in women over 38 years of age. Taiwan Society of Reproductive Medicine 2017 Annual Conference.