What is PICSI ?

Aashakiran IVF, like many other advanced fertility clinics, uses advanced sperm selection techniques to increase the chances of successful fertilization and healthy offspring. One such technique is called PICSI (Physiological Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), which is based on the molecular binding principle.

PICSI involves immobilizing hyaluronic acid (HA) on a petri dish. HA is a key component of the extracellular matrix of cumulus, which is the protective layer of cells surrounding the oocyte. During the final stage of spermatogenesis, the plasma membrane of the sperm undergoes remodeling, which facilitates binding of the male germ cell hyaluronan and the zona pellucida. Human sperm have HA receptors, and at least three HA-binding proteins are involved in crucial steps such as sperm maturation, acrosome reaction, motility, hyaluronidase activity, and sperm-zona binding.

To perform PICSI, a prepared spermatozoa suspension is placed over spots of immobilized HA and incubated at 37 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes. By gently rinsing the HA droplet, the frequently moving spermatozoa are removed, leaving only the ones that have bound to the HA. These bound spermatozoa are then picked with an ICSI injection pipette and injected into the oocyte.

By selecting sperm based on their natural binding affinity to HA, PICSI can increase the chances of selecting the most competent and healthy spermatozoa for injection into the oocyte. This can lead to higher fertilization rates, better embryo development, and ultimately, healthier offspring.

Aashakiran IVF and other fertility clinics offer a range of advanced sperm selection techniques to increase the chances of successful fertilization and healthy offspring. The selection of the most suitable technique for each individual patient is based on a thorough evaluation of their medical history, fertility test results, and other factors.