Rejuvenating eggs for IVF may reduce age-related chromosome errors

Researchers report that microinjections of the protein Shugoshin 1 into donated human eggs lowered the share with chromosomal defects from about 53% to 29% overall and from 65% to 44% in eggs from women over 35.

Scientists report a laboratory method that appears to restore a protein linked to chromosome stability in aging eggs. The work addresses age-related declines in egg quality, a major factor in IVF failure and miscarriage. In lab tests the team delivered microinjections of the protein Shugoshin 1 to mouse and donated human eggs. The results were presented at the British Fertility Conference and the researchers have formed Ovo Labs to pursue further development. Key findings: - The team delivered microinjections of the protein Shugoshin 1 (SGO1) to mouse eggs and to human eggs donated by fertility patients. - Overall, the proportion of eggs showing chromosomal defects fell from about 53% in untreated eggs to about 29% after SGO1 was added. - In eggs from women over 35, defects decreased from about 65% to about 44% after the treatment. - Investigators including Melina Schuh and Agata Zielinska are associated with the work; they presented the findings at the British Fertility Conference and have co-founded Ovo Labs. - The researchers say they are in talks with regulators about testing the technique in clinical trials, and experts note the key remaining question is whether improved egg measurements translate into embryos with fewer genetic errors. Summary: The study reports a laboratory technique that restores a chromosome-protecting protein in older eggs and reduces observed rates of chromosomal defects in those samples. Researchers are discussing regulatory steps toward clinical trials and say further validation is needed to determine whether the egg improvements lead to better embryo genetic outcomes and fertility results. Undetermined at this time.