IVF News

New data suggest men over 45 may reduce chances of live birth even with young donor eggs

Experimental AI conversation.

New research presented at the 2025 European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) meeting has highlighted a growing concern in assisted reproduction: the age of the father. While maternal age has long been recognized as a critical factor in fertility and miscarriage risk, this large-scale study indicates that paternal age also plays a significant role—particularly in the context of IVF, even when using donor eggs from young women.

The findings come from an analysis of nearly 5,000 IVF embryo transfers using donor eggs, conducted across clinics in Spain. All egg donors were under the age of 35, allowing researchers to isolate the impact of the male partner’s age. The results were striking: when the male partner was aged 45 or older, the risk of miscarriage increased by 44 percent compared to younger age groups. Moreover, live birth rates dropped by nearly a third.

This pattern remained consistent even when embryos were genetically screened prior to implantation. The results suggest that sperm from older men may contribute to early pregnancy loss through mechanisms other than aneuploidy. Age-related declines in sperm quality, DNA fragmentation, and epigenetic changes are among the hypothesized contributors.

While the effect of paternal age on fertility outcomes is not a new area of inquiry, this study is among the most robust to date to control for maternal age and egg quality. It offers renewed evidence that the reproductive clock is not solely ticking for women. For clinicians and patients, the findings underscore the importance of considering male age during fertility counseling and treatment planning.

Researchers behind the study have called for updates to public health guidance and clinical protocols. Currently, most fertility information places little emphasis on male age thresholds. However, the data suggest that after the age of 45, men may face a significantly diminished likelihood of successful pregnancy through IVF—even when the female partner is young or donor eggs are used.

As more couples delay parenthood, these findings may have far-reaching implications. With the average age of fathers steadily increasing in many countries, awareness of paternal age effects on fertility and miscarriage risk is becoming increasingly important in both natural and assisted conception.

Sources

29 June 2025. The Times

• Men's biological clock linked to IVF miscarriages

30 June 2025. Independent

• Older fathers linked to 'significantly' higher IVF miscarriage risk

30 June 2025. Daily Mail

• Sperm from men over the age of 45 are linked to higher IVF miscarriages and lower birth rates – even when young donor eggs were used

Breakthrough in stem cell reprogramming redefines the possibilities of mammalian reproduction

Experimental AI conversation.

In a landmark achievement, researchers in Japan have successfully created mice born from two male parents, and for the first time, these mice have gone on to produce healthy offspring of their own. The findings, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), represent a pivotal step toward understanding the mechanisms of sex-specific reproduction and could one day pave the way for same-sex biological parenthood in humans.

The team, led by Katsuhiko Hayashi at Osaka University, reprogrammed skin cells from adult male mice into induced pluripotent stem cells. These cells were then converted into immature egg cells using a novel in vitro culture system. Crucially, a precise series of genetic manipulations were used to remove the male Y chromosome and duplicate the X chromosome, effectively producing genetically female egg cells from male origins. When fertilized with sperm from another male mouse, the resulting embryos developed normally and were implanted into surrogate female mice, ultimately leading to the birth of viable, fertile offspring.

This is the first time a mammalian species has produced multigenerational progeny from exclusively male genetic material. While similar experiments had previously been attempted using two female sets of DNA, this marks a scientific first for male-male reproduction. The mice that resulted from these experiments displayed normal growth and reproductive capabilities, offering proof-of-concept that such methods can produce functional germline transmission.

The implications of this research are profound. Beyond offering insight into sex chromosome biology and the potential for infertility treatments, the study raises the possibility that, in the future, two men could have genetically related children without needing a female egg donor. However, scientists caution that this remains a distant prospect. The efficiency of producing viable offspring was low, and the entire procedure involves complex steps with uncertain outcomes in species other than mice.

Ethical considerations are also critical. Rewriting the reproductive biology of mammals raises significant questions around the applications and boundaries of such technology in humans. These include concerns about genetic integrity, consent, and the long-term impact on offspring.

Nonetheless, the study marks a significant milestone in reproductive biology. By demonstrating that viable eggs can be derived from male cells and used to produce healthy, fertile progeny, this research challenges long-standing assumptions about the biological roles of sperm and eggs. It opens new paths for exploring chromosomal engineering, gametogenesis, and potentially, new family structures grounded in shared genetics.

As the field advances, the work by Hayashi’s team will likely serve as a foundation for deeper investigation into cellular reprogramming and reproductive autonomy. For now, the birth of mice with two fathers and their subsequent reproduction represents not just a technical accomplishment, but a bold reimagining of what is biologically possible.

Sources

23 June 2025. PNAS

• Fertile androgenetic mice generated by targeted epigenetic editing of imprinting control regions

23 June 2025. New Scientist

• Mice with two fathers have their own offspring for the first time

23 June 2025. ARS Technica

• Researchers get viable mice by editing DNA from two sperm

27 June 2025. Science Alert

• Scientific First: Mice With Two Fathers Now Have Offspring

26 June 2025. The Week

• How mice with two dads bring us closer to two men having a child of their own

Training Batch Schedule August 2025 

Batch - VIII :    4th  to 18th August

The International School of Embryology a unit of Chennai Fertility Centre and Research Institute was established to offer training in Advanced Reproductive Techniques and Embryology for clinicians and embryologists. It will help them to know in-depth knowledge and have good hands-on training. The members of our teaching faculty aim to bring Clinician and Embryologists to the highest level of knowledge about Assisted Reproductive Technology and practical capability.

Our courses cover basics in Andrology, Embryology, ICSI & Cryosciences (Hands-on).

Limited Seats. For admission Contact  9003111598 / 8428278218 

Building on your existing knowledge and experience, the course offers advanced learning and establishes good practice in clinical embryology and assisted reproduction technologies. It allows you to remain in full-time employment while you study and offers superb academic and professional development opportunities.

The course features a series of compulsory modules that you’ll work through progressively along a set timeline. Through these modules you’ll develop your knowledge of both the theory and practice of clinical embryology. The MSc culminates with the research proposal in which you’ll create a hypothesis driven research proposal.

Designed for the working professional: The course is designed to allow the working professional to study while remaining in full-time employment. The course is part-time and the schedule is designed to be manageable for working individuals.

Staff expertise and support: Our academic staff have many years of professional and research experience in the field of clinical embryology and reproduction. Their diverse specialisations, ranging from reproductive biology to assisted reproduction technologies, underpin the uniqueness of the course at Leeds. Their insights and guidance will significantly enrich your learning experience. You’ll be supported by staff members who have years of experience in assisting distance-learning students with their studies. You’ll be assigned an academic tutor who will guide and advise you throughout the course.

International community: You'll connect with practitioners and fellow learners worldwide, fostering an enriching exchange of ideas and perspectives and allowing mutual sharing of expertise. This global network can be instrumental in shaping your career path and broadening your understanding of international practices in clinical embryology.

Interdisciplinary collaboration: The course is hosted by the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine within the School of Medicine which fosters a rich, interdisciplinary teaching and research environment.

Ground-breaking research: Our faculty members are involved in world-leading research in fundamental and clinical research in areas related to gametes and preimplantation embryos, epigenetics, in vitro growth and maturation of oocytes, fertility preservation, uterine biology, and placental biology among other areas. This pioneering academic environment will help position you at the forefront of advancements in the field of reproductive science.

Chennai Fertility Centre and Research Institute, offering an Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Embryology and Preimplantation Genetics association with Bharathiar University.

Our mission is to provide

• Extensive hands-on training
• Unlock new opportunities with advanced learning
• State-of-the Art facilities
•  In-depth theoretical knowledge and practical skills
•  Specialized training for Career support 

Eligibility:

Under Graduation and Post-Graduation in any Life Sciences, Bio Medical Sciences, Medical Sciences and Veterinary Sciences from a recognized university

Join Us! Our program details and admission process

• Contact : 9003111598 / 8428278218
• Mail: [email protected]

Automation in the IVF Lab: From Manual to Machine Precision

17th June 3pm ET, 8pm UK, 9pm CET

This webinar is kindly sponsored by Conceivable Life Sciences

Hosts:
Dr. David Sable and Dr. Cristina Hickman

Introduction by Dr. David Sable “Executive Order”

Presenters:
Dr. Alejandro Chavez Badiola “Look inside the Aura”
Dr. Jason Swain “The evolving role of the Lab Director/Embryologist: What does the future hold in store?“
Dr. Gerardo Mendizabal Ruiz “Embryoneering the IVF lab”

Q and A

VIEW HERE

Rebuilding Trust: Strengthening IVF Safety and Regulation in Australia

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) plays a vital role in helping thousands of Australian families grow each year, with around 20,000 babies born through in vitro fertilization (IVF) annually. This life-changing science relies heavily on trust—trust in clinical accuracy, regulatory oversight, and ethical handling of the most personal aspects of reproductive care. Recently, that trust has been significantly shaken by two high-profile embryo mix-ups at Monash IVF, one of the country’s leading fertility providers. These deeply troubling events have prompted widespread concern and intensified calls for sweeping regulatory reform across Australia’s fertility sector.

Experimental AI conversation.

The two reported incidents occurred within a relatively short timeframe. In one case, a patient at Monash IVF’s Brisbane clinic gave birth to a child in 2023, later learning through follow-up investigations that the embryo transferred had come from another couple. The discovery only emerged after the parents attempted to transfer remaining embryos to another provider. A second case took place at Monash’s laboratory in Clayton, Melbourne, where a woman received an embryo different from what her treatment plan had prescribed. In this case, she was given her own embryo, rather than the one developed with her partner.

These incidents have underscored deeper, systemic concerns raised by long-standing campaigners in the IVF community. Some patients have discovered, often years later through DNA testing, discrepancies in the genetic parentage of their children—despite having followed consistent treatment plans. Such cases suggest that failures in documentation, verification, or procedural safeguards may be more widespread than previously acknowledged, and not simply rare one-off errors.

In light of these developments, advocacy for comprehensive national reform has gained momentum. Central to this effort is the call for federal regulation of the ART sector, as the current framework is divided across Australia’s states and territories. Each region enforces its own legal structure, leading to more than 40 different legislative instruments governing ART. While states like Victoria have long-established laws, others, such as Queensland, only recently introduced ART-specific legislation. This fragmented approach has made oversight inconsistent and left gaps in accountability and transparency.

The Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ), the peak body for the sector, has long advocated for a nationally consistent regulatory model. Their vision includes the transformation of the existing Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee (RTAC) into an independent statutory authority, better equipped to enforce standards, respond to risks, and deliver clear, uniform governance. Such a move would streamline oversight and provide fertility patients across the country with equal protection and assurance, regardless of where they receive treatment.

Recent government responses have reflected growing recognition of the issue’s seriousness. Federal and state health ministers have jointly initiated a three-month rapid review of the fertility sector, focusing on the creation of an independent verification body for ART providers. This review is intended to address concerns around impartiality in the current system, where service providers often also participate in accreditation decisions. By introducing a system that clearly separates regulation from service delivery, policymakers aim to strengthen public confidence and ensure greater transparency.

While some experts point out that serious ART errors are statistically uncommon, the lack of comprehensive national data makes it difficult to determine their true frequency. Settlements and private resolutions often prevent full disclosure, which can obscure the scale of potential issues. In this context, the push for uniform reporting, robust data collection, and enforceable standards becomes even more critical.

Attention has also turned toward the workforce within IVF clinics, particularly embryologists, who carry out highly skilled and sensitive procedures. There is a recognized shortage of experienced embryologists globally, and variations in training, workload, and staffing levels may impact the quality of care. Some in the field have proposed establishing a national registry for embryologists to ensure consistency in qualifications and ongoing accountability. Others emphasize the need for updated ethical frameworks and clearer guidance to manage the growing complexity of human intervention in reproduction.

In response to the recent errors, Monash IVF has implemented new patient verification and safety protocols that exceed standard industry practices. These include enhanced safeguards around embryo transfer procedures and additional internal checks. The organization has also undergone leadership change, with its CEO stepping down and interim leadership appointed to guide the company through this critical period. Sector leaders have emphasized that incidents of this nature must be met with full transparency, rigorous investigation, and a commitment to continuous improvement across the entire industry.

The events at Monash IVF have marked a turning point for Australia’s reproductive medicine sector. While deeply concerning, they have also opened the door for long-overdue reform and a national conversation on how best to safeguard the future of ART. Moving forward, the focus must remain on establishing clear, consistent, and independent regulation. This will ensure that families seeking fertility care can do so with confidence—knowing the systems in place are strong, ethical, and fully aligned with the high stakes and emotional weight of their journeys.

SOURCES

13 June 2025. Australian Broadcasting Corporation

• National review launched into IVF accreditation following second Monash embryo mix-up

12 June 2025. Australian Broadcasting Corporation

• Monash IVF CEO Michael Knaap resigns after second embryo bungle

12 June 2025. Guardian

• Monash IVF chief executive resigns after company's second embryo transplant bungle

11 June 2025. Australian Broadcasting Corporation

• Calls for federal IVF regulation and DNA testing after second Monash embryo mix-up

A recent and deeply concerning case involving a sperm donor carrying a previously undocumented cancer-causing genetic variant has ignited urgent discussions about the need for more robust regulation of gamete donation across Europe and globally. This situation underscores significant challenges in international assisted reproduction, particularly concerning genetic screening, donor limits, and cross-border oversight.

Experimental AI conversation.

The Alarming Discovery The case came to light after two families independently contacted their fertility clinics because their children had developed cancers linked to a rare genetic variant. The donor, whose sperm was used to conceive children between 2008 and 2015, is reportedly in good health himself. However, his biological children are at risk of Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a rare condition that significantly heightens cancer risk at an early age.

The variant was identified in the TP53 (tumor protein 53) gene. The TP53 gene plays a crucial role as a tumor suppressor, regulating cell division and growth. When this gene is faulty, damaged cells can grow uncontrollably, potentially leading to cancer. At the time of donation in 2008, this specific variant was of "unknown significance" and was not known to be linked to cancer. Standard screening techniques then would not have detected it.

Dr. Edwige Kasper, a specialist in genetic predisposition to cancer at the Rouen University Hospital in France, analyzed the variant using various databases and tools. She concluded that it was "probably cancer-causing" and that children born from this donor should receive genetic counseling. Subsequent investigations across Europe confirmed that out of 67 children from 46 families in eight European countries, the variant was found in 23 individuals, and 10 of these children have, to date, been diagnosed with cancers such as leukaemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

The Regulatory Vacuum This situation has brought into sharp focus the differing laws on sperm donation across European countries. The lack of consistent cross-border regulation significantly increases the risks of inbreeding and the transmission of inherited diseases. As Dr. Kasper starkly put it, this case represents the "abnormal dissemination of genetic disease", emphasizing that "not every man has 75 children across Europe".

While many countries limit the number of children or families that can be conceived from a single donor (e.g., the UK limits it to ten families), such limits are not universally imposed or enforced across borders. This means sperm from a donor who has reached a limit in one country might still be provided to individuals in other jurisdictions. This challenge is compounded by the difficulty in tracing a large number of families across multiple countries to inform them of a serious medical issue.

Expert Voices and Recommendations Calls for better regulation are widespread. Dr. Kasper advocates for a "proper regulation at European level" and a "worldwide limit on the number of offspring conceived from the same donor". She also advises French parents to favor medically assisted procreation procedures within France, where donation is voluntary, anonymous, and free, and each donor is limited to a maximum of 10 births nationwide. French regulations also require approval from the Agence de la Biomédecine for the import or export of gametes.

Alexandre Reymond, PhD, Chair of the European Society of Human Genetics conference, highlighted that while current legislation on assisted reproduction often doesn't cross borders, this case clearly demonstrates the need for wider oversight. Professor Nicky Hudson of De Montfort University noted that the case highlights the complexity when human gametes are shipped internationally and used for many recipients, stressing the need for "better systems for tracking donor usage" and "informing recipients".

The Path Forward For the children found to carry the cancer-causing variant, a comprehensive follow-up protocol has been established. This involves regular whole-body MRI scans, MRI scans of the brain, and for adults, breast MRI scans and ultrasound examination of the abdomen, along with clinical examinations by a specialist. This rigorous monitoring has already shown effectiveness in enabling early tumor detection, thereby improving patients' chances of survival.

The European Sperm Bank, which supplied the sperm in this instance, stated they are "deeply affected by this case". A spokesperson confirmed that the donor was thoroughly tested, but noted that it is "scientifically simply not possible to detect disease-causing mutations in a person’s gene pool if you don’t know what you are looking for". The bank proactively implements its own "international limit of 75 families per donor" and welcomes "continued dialogue on setting an internationally mandated family limit". However, Dr. Kasper has raised concerns that the bank has not disclosed the total number of births from this specific donor.

This troubling case serves as a powerful reminder of the critical need for international collaboration and harmonized regulations in assisted reproduction. As genetic testing advances, so too must the frameworks that govern gamete donation, ensuring enhanced screening, transparent tracking, and globally agreed-upon limits to protect the health and well-being of future generations.

SOURCES

2 June 2025. BioNews

• Sperm donor with cancer gene mutation sparks regulatory concerns

23 May 2025. The Guardian

• Sperm from cancer-risk donor used to conceive at least 67 children across Europe

24 May 2025. The Independent

• Sperm donor with cancer-causing gene passes on disease to ten children

28 May 2025. Inside Precision Medicine

• Sperm donor's cancer-causing mutation prompts calls for better regulation in Europe

26 May 2025. Interesting Engineering

• Sperm donor with rare cancer gene fathered 67 children across eight European countries

Training Batch Schedule July 2025 

Batch - VII :    1st  to 15th  July

The International School of Embryology a unit of Chennai Fertility Centre and Research Institute was established to offer training in Advanced Reproductive Techniques and Embryology for clinicians and embryologists. It will help them to know in-depth knowledge and have good hands-on training. The members of our teaching faculty aim to bring Clinician and Embryologists to the highest level of knowledge about Assisted Reproductive Technology and practical capability.

Our courses cover basics in Andrology, Embryology, ICSI & Cryosciences (Hands-on).

Limited Seats. For admission Contact  9003111598 / 8428278218