Abstract: The inventors have discovered inter alia, that when the chromosome complement of a first polar body (PB-I) is normal, it alone is in more than 80% of cases sufficient to predict that an embryo which has developed from an oocyte associated with the PB-I is also normal and competent. As such, the invention relates to methods of identifying competent oocytes and embryos suitable for use during in vitro fertilization.

Abstract: The invention relates to a methodology for creating an embryonic stem cell line. The stem cells derived from the invention are of substantially better quality of human stem cells currently known to exist. The inventors have discovered inter alia, that when the chromosome complement of a first polar body (PB-I) is normal, it alone is in more than 80% of cases sufficient to predict that an embryo which has developed from an oocyte associated with the PB-I is also euploid and competent. Euploid embryos ensure are a key prerequisite in the making of euploid embryonic stem cells. This allows the technician minimize the number of disrupted embryos by only disrupting those embryos determined to be euploid.

Abstract: The inventors have discovered inter alia, that when the chromosome complement of a first polar body (PB-I) is normal, it alone is in more than 80% of cases sufficient to predict that an embryo which has developed from an oocyte associated with the PB-I is also normal and competent. As such, the invention relates to methods of identifying competent oocytes and embryos suitable for use during in vitro fertilization.

Abstract: Survival of the fetal allograft is in large part dependent upon the establishment of a “harmonious interaction” between the trophoblast and decidual lymphocytes. It has been suggested that upon arrival at the site of implantation, a novel gene of non-classical human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I antigen, HLA-G, produced predominantly by the extravillous cytotrophoblast (which represents the only fetal cells that are in direct contact with maternal decidual cells) immediately signals decidual lymphocytes. In response, these lymphocytes release growth factors (cytokines), initiating a “cross-talk” with the embryo, referred to as the cytokine network. It is this “dialogue” that is believed to establish and promote implantation. The detection of sHLA-G in embryo culture media of grouped and single embryos that are most likely to implant suggests that sHLA-G may have a role in optimizing implantation potential in IVF procedures.

Abstract: A method for determining embryo quality involving measuring soluble HLA-G levels present in the embryo culture medium at least 44-46 hours post-fertilization is provided. Culture media and in vitro fertilization programs employing same are also provided.

Abstract: An enhanced method of in vitro fertilization by coating an embryo transfer catheter with a non-embryotoxic phospholipid. The phospholipid reduces or eliminates the collection of mucus on an ET catheter as it passes through the mucus plug in the cervical cannel and thus elimininating its detrimental effect in, engulfing the embryo and preventing implantation.

Abstract: A simple rapid STAT test and test kit are provided for the reliable determination of prenatal lung maturity as well as other surfactant lipid dependent determinations. The method involves a shake test employing a plurality of vials having graduated volumes of ethanol, including a dye, normally in combination with a positive control. A predetermined amount of the sample is introduced into each of the vials, the vials shaken in a reproducible manner, and the highest ethanol volume fraction which provides for a stable foam determined. Based on statistical evaluations, an ethanol volume fraction above 0.45 will generally be regarded as positive, meaning healthy lung maturity, while a value below about 0.45 will generally indicate that further investigation is warranted.