Advancing fertility research: Groundbreaking work from Mount Sinai Fertility, presented at CFAS 2024
At Mount Sinai Fertility (MSF), we are not only dedicated to offering exceptional fertility care but also to advancing research that shapes the future of reproductive health. This commitment was on full display at the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society (CFAS) 2024 Conference, where some of our most groundbreaking research was presented. Spearheading these efforts is Dr. Heather Shapiro, a leader in fertility research and mentorship at MSF.
Here, we highlight key research projects that were featured at this prestigious conference by MSF.
1. Access to Fertility Care for Individuals with Blood Borne Viral Infections
Presented by: Jordan Hausman (Supervisor: Dr. Heather Shapiro)
This study addresses the barriers faced by individuals and couples living with blood-borne viral infections, such as HIV and Hepatitis, when seeking fertility care. The research, presented at CFAS 2024, aims to create more equitable access to fertility services by identifying and overcoming these challenges, ensuring all individuals can pursue their dream of building a family.
Dr Shapiro continues MSF’s longstanding association with the Women and HIV Research Program, reporting on the progress made over 15 years of educating fertility care providers on developments in this area. The group showed that there has been significant improvement in access to care although unfortunately some clinics do not follow the evidence based guidelines.
2. Identification & Validation of Transvaginal Ultrasound Endometrial Appearance Features and Their Impact on Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) Outcomes
Presented by: Shirin Dason (Supervisor: Dr. Heather Shapiro)
Frozen embryo transfer success can depend on many factors, including the condition of the endometrial lining. This research, unveiled at CFAS 2024, investigates specific transvaginal ultrasound markers that can predict better outcomes in FET. By identifying these markers, fertility specialists can enhance treatment protocols and improve pregnancy rates for patients.
Because physical characteristics of the endometrium seen on ultrasound is not consistently reported, it is difficult to understand what is important in embryo implantation and what to improve. This work brought together experts across Canada to establish the important measures. This will be the foundation of much future research in the field.
3. Identification of Baseline Microbiological Contamination within the Embryology Laboratory
Presented by: Shirin Dason (Supervisors: Dr. Heather Shapiro & Scot Hamilton PhD)
Embryo quality and IVF outcomes can be negatively impacted by contamination in the embryology lab. This research, presented at CFAS 2024, focuses on identifying common microbial contaminants in IVF laboratories and offers insights into improving lab conditions to protect embryo integrity and enhance success rates.
Embryology Lab quality is of paramount importance. However, until this work, there has been very little understanding of the nature or frequency of microbial contaminants in lab surface area. This work provides important insight into lab microbes and how to minimize contamination.
4. Reproductive Outcomes of a Case Series of Microbial Contamination of Embryo Culture in an IVF Laboratory
Presented by: Shirin Dason (Supervisors: Dr. Heather Shapiro & Scot Hamilton PhD)
Following on from previous research, this presentation at CFAS 2024 examined the reproductive outcomes in cases of microbial contamination in IVF embryo cultures. Understanding how contamination impacts pregnancy outcomes is critical in shaping new laboratory protocols to improve the safety and reliability of IVF procedures.
When embryo culture historically showed suggestion of microbial contamination, patients have counselled that the cause was from the sperm, that there was significant risk to them and their embryos, and even to discard the embryos and cancel the cycle. This work will change that advice. Drs Dason, Shapiro and Hamilton showed that there are many sources of contamination and that the outcomes of IVF with contamination is comparable to those without.
5. Comparing Aneuploidies in Pregnancy Losses after Fertility Treatment, PGT-A, and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL)
Presented by: Shirin Dason (Supervisors: Dr. Heather Shapiro, Dr. Ellen Greenblatt, & Dr. Vanessa Bacal)
Genetic abnormalities, or aneuploidies, are a major cause of pregnancy loss. This study, presented at CFAS 2024, compares the incidence and types of aneuploidies identified through products of conception (POC) testing in losses after fertility treatment, pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A), and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). This research could lead to more tailored care for patients experiencing recurrent miscarriages.
Pregnancy loss is devastating and it is particularly frustrating when it follows fertility treatment with extensive testing. This study helps to understand what causes of pregnancy loss can be anticipated after different modes of conception.
6. An increase in NF-κB activity impairs embryo progression in a NLRP5 deficient mouse model, resulting in 2-cell embryonic arrest
Presented by Saudah Butt ( Supervisor Scot Hamilton PhD)
Learning that the embryos stopped growing after 3 days is devastating as a patient and frustrating and unexplainable for the provider. This fascinating work on mice embryos suggests that there may be a gene mutation that is responsible for this.
A New Frontier in Fertility Research
The CFAS 2024 Conference provided an incredible platform for Mount Sinai Fertility to showcase its cutting-edge research and innovative approaches to fertility care. MSF continues to push the boundaries of reproductive science, exploring critical issues and developing new techniques that improve patient outcomes.
Every study presented at CFAS 2024 reflects our deep commitment to driving fertility research forward, and offering hope to individuals and couples navigating their fertility journeys. As we continue to lead in both clinical practice and research, MSF remains dedicated to shaping a future where more families can achieve their dreams.
To learn more about our research and services, contact Mount Sinai Fertility today. We’re here to support you every step of the way.