Artificial Oocyte Activation

Studies reported that calcium signal deficiency or insufficiency during oocyte activation are related with embryo arrest and blastocyst quality. The utilization of Artificial Oocyte Activation (AOA) is safe and does not increase birth defects, cognition, language and motor skills. AOA is the first line of treatment in patients with globozoospermia (round headed spermatozoa). Poor responders in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles represent a major challenge for fertility specialists and comprises about 10-15% of patients undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. The absence of synergy between the oocyte and sperm leads to a negative impact on oocyte activation. The European Society of Human and REproduction (ESHRE) recommends AOA in cases with failed fertilization/ low fertilization.