Method of handling an oocyte during in vitro fertilization

Abstract

The developmental potential of a mammalian oocyte for successful implantation is evaluated by producing a plurality of intensity images of the oocyte using polarized light optics, and calculating a retardance image with a sensitivity of 3 nm or less. The presence, location and morphological characteristics of a meiotic spindle in the oocyte can then be determined based on the spindle structure in the retardance image, and the developmental potential of the oocyte can be evaluated.

1 - 8 . (canceled)  
     
     
         9 . A method of improving in-vitro fertilization procedures performed on an oocyte, comprising the following steps: 
 handling the oocyte in a sample holder,    placing the sample holder on an inverted microscope with a sample stage and at least one objective,    viewing the oocyte with the inverted microscope and the objective,    outfitting the microscope stage with a thermostatically controlled heater,    outfitting said objective with a lens warmer, and    adjusting the thermostatically-controlled heater and the lens warmer to produce a nominal temperature at the oocyte with a temperature variation of less than 3 degrees C.    
     
     
         10 . A method as in  claim 9  wherein said nominal temperature is about 37° C.  
     
     
         11 - 12 . (canceled)