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 present invention relates to the cryopreservation and preparation of warmed oocytes for fertilization. Cryopreservation of oocytes using vitrification methods is disclosed. Exemplary techniques include making a vent in the zona pellucida surrounding the oocyte; contacting the oocyte with a vitrification solution comprising at least one cryoprotectant; and vitrifying the oocyte. Further methods of warming the vitrified oocyte, in preparation for intracellular sperm injection are disclosed, allowing for the assessment of successful 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.