‘Womb chip’ fertilisation set for human embryo tests

AUTOMATED conception, using a production line version of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment, is being developed in Japan, it was reported yesterday.

Scientists are working on a miniature “womb-on-a-chip” which can churn out early-stage embryos after being fed with sperm and eggs. Once manufactured, the pinhead-sized embryos could be implanted into a woman’s womb, or frozen.

The researchers, from the University of Tokyo, hope the device will boost the success rate of IVF treatment. Conventional IVF involves moving or washing eggs or embryos with culture fluid, causing changes in temperature and acidity. This can lead to failed treatment cycles.