AI-enhanced metabolic imaging: a non-invasive and precise IVF assessment tool

Project Summary The development of a non-invasive, objective embryo viability assessment remains an unmet need in IVF treatment. In this work, Optiva Fertility aims to develop a novel embryo assessment based on metabolic imaging using Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging (FLIM) in conjunction with artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. To date, Optiva Fertility has designed, tested, and deployed a first generation metabolic imaging system and has commenced clinical work. Bringing this technology to the point where it provides significant benefit to IVF patients requires a multi-stage development and verification process which forms the basis for the proposed work in this grant. Based on the results from an observational pilot trial, Optiva will design a large scale, multi-site observational trial. The purpose of this study is to obtain a dataset large enough to train robust AI models for assessing embryo viability. Facilitating this trial will require engineering and constructing a second generation metabolic imaging system featuring a more compact and integrated hardware design, automated calibration, upgraded controls software, and enhanced imaging technology. It is anticipated that this system will be very similar to the eventual commercial product. Successful completion of this work will further the understanding of the role metabolism plays in embryo viability, as well as leave Optiva well positioned to undertake a pivotal interventional trial.