AI makes possible analysis of the “invisible biochemistry” of sperm, paving the way for the selection of the most competent one prior to fertilization

• At ESHRE, IVI presents advances in hyperspectral imaging that can analyze molecular information not visible under a microscope and predict its potential, thereby improving success rates and reducing the number of treatment attempts.
• A second study is developing an AI-based system that can detect deviations in the IVF laboratory in real time and anticipate potential problems before they affect clinical outcomes.

LONDON, TUESDAY, JULY 7, 2026

Improving outcomes in assisted reproduction isn’t just about the number and quality of eggs or embryo selection. Choosing the right sperm is emerging as a key factor that is often underestimated.

At the 42nd Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), IVI is presenting a series of studies that demonstrate how hyperspectral imaging, combined with artificial intelligence, makes it possible for the first time to analyze the biochemistry of sperm without damaging them, thereby opening up new possibilities in sperm selection.

Until now, one of the main limitations was technical: gaining in-depth knowledge of a sperm cell’s visible.

“There were no techniques capable of analyzing the molecular characteristics of a sperm cell without compromising its viability. Any attempt to measure its biochemistry rendered it unusable for fertilization. Hyperspectral imaging changes that paradigm,” says Dr. Nicolás Garrido, director of the IVI Foundation and principal investigator of the study “Integrating AI-driven hyperspectral sperm imaging for prioritisation of spermatozoa associated with embryo implantation.”

Artificial intelligence: from image to clinical decision

This advance is made possible by combining hyperspectral cameras with artificial intelligence algorithms that can convert complex images into quantifiable data. “AI lets us turn previously inaccessible information into analyzable data. We’ve gone from observing shape and movement to being able to understand the molecular content of the sperm in a non-invasive way,” he explains.

This approach enables the development of predictive models that link specific biochemical patterns to reproductive success.

The papers presented indicate a significant shift in how the male gamete is selected. “Hyper-spectral imaging analysis lets us design statistical models to predict the individual probability of each sperm becoming a viable blastocyst,” explains Dr. Garrido.

What is hyperspectral imaging?

Hyperspectral imaging is a technology that analyzes how light interacts with a sample to reveal information about its internal composition. Unlike a conventional microscope, which primarily shows shape and movement, this technique captures signals that, emitted at multiple wavelengths, reveal the molecular content of cells. For sperm, it reveals biochemical characteristics without damaging them, opening up new possibilities for improving their selection in assisted reproduction.

Benefits for patients and upcoming advancements

This research directly impacts patients. Selecting the sperm with the greatest potential increases the likelihood of treatment success and reduces the need for repeat cycles.

Looking ahead, research is focusing on more complex models that integrate information from the sperm, the oocyte, and the patient’s clinical characteristics, moving toward more personalized assisted reproduction.

“We are developing models that combine all these factors. The embryo is the result of both, so understanding that interaction will be key. Our plan is to complete these studies in about a year and move toward integrating them into clinical practice,” he concludes.

AI for IVF laboratory performance

Alongside other applications of artificial intelligence in assisted reproduction, IVI has developed an innovative system focused on the real-time monitoring of IVF laboratory performance. This approach, detailed in the study “A real-time predictive alert system for monitoring IVF laboratory performance using time-lapse–derived embryo features”, led by Dr. Marcos Meseguer, Global Director of Embryology Research at IVI RMA Global, represents a paradigm shift in the use of AI within the laboratory. It focuses on the overall quality of the process rather than solely on individual embryos.

This system draws on the vast amount of information generated by time-lapse incubators, which are used for 100% of embryos at centers like IVI Valencia and allow for the continuous monitoring of embryonic development.

“Every day, we have hundreds of embryos developing simultaneously, generating a vast amount of digital information. What we’ve created is a system that can use this aggregated data to predict, in real time, the laboratory’s expected results in the coming weeks and, most importantly, to detect any deviations from normal values early on,” explains Dr. Meseguer.

The significance of this work lies in its ability to create an early warning system that identifies potential technical issues, process incidents, environmental changes, or any trends that could negatively impact embryonic development before they lead to a decline in clinical outcomes. This would allow for the early implementation of corrective measures, thereby safeguarding patients’ reproductive outcomes.

“This technology, thus, serves as a new layer of quality control and safety for the laboratory, leveraging the extensive monitoring of data generated by time-lapse systems, advanced analytics tools, and artificial intelligence,” he concludes.

About IVI RMA Global

IVI was founded in 1990 as the first medical institution in Spain fully dedicated to human reproduction. Since then, it has helped bring more than 250,000 children into the world through continuous innovation and the use of the latest assisted reproduction treatments.

It’s one of the European centers with the highest pregnancy rates; in fact, most couples who consult IVI for infertility issues achieve their goal. Furthermore, it boasts a team of over 2,500 professionals, including the world’s leading specialists in assisted reproduction.

IVI is part of the IVI RMA Global group, which operates in 15 countries. In addition to Spain, it has clinics in Portugal, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Nordic countries, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Panama, Brazil, and Chile.