The news comes from Peru and is destined to change the future of reproductive medicine: the first child in the world conceived thanks to the Fertilo method has been born, a technique that promises to overcome the main obstacles of traditional in vitro fertilization. A milestone that not only marks the beginning of a new era in medically assisted procreation, but also offers hope to millions of people who dream of becoming parents.
The Fertilo Method and the New Frontier of Reproduction
The Fertilo Method represents a significant breakthrough in the field of reproductive medicine. Developed by a female-led biotech company called Gamete, this innovative approach uses the technology of ovarian support cells (OSC) to mature the eggs outside the body.
The birth took place at the Santa Isabel Clinic of Lima: the Dr. Dina Radenkovic, CEO and co-founder of Gameto, expressed great satisfaction with this result.
By overcoming the main challenges of conventional IVF, such as long treatment cycles, significant side effects and emotional and physical stress, the Fertilo method offers a potentially faster, safer and more accessible solution for families.
By the way, let me introduce you to the new arrival. On the cover of this article was his first “photo” from the ultrasound. Now let me introduce you to him. What a guapo!
A comparison with traditional techniques
Traditional in vitro fertilization requires a long and complex process. Patients must undergo daily hormone injections for 10-14 days, with constant monitoring to ensure the collection of eggs at the optimal time.
The process involves significant risks, including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a rare but serious complication. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and severe abdominal pain.
These side effects can be so severe that they require hospitalization or discontinuation of treatment, representing a significant obstacle for many people wishing to embark on this journey.
The technical innovations of the Fertilo method
The heart of innovation lies in the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). This technology allows us to engineer young ovarian support cells that recreate the natural process of egg maturation in the laboratory.
The engineered ovarian support cells behave like the body's natural ones, producing and responding to key hormones. A 2023 study demonstrated that this approach significantly improves egg maturation rates.
The mother of the first child born with this method shared her positive experience:
The Fertilo Method was the preferred option over traditional approaches. With fewer injections and a gentler, less invasive egg collection process, it gave me hope and reassurance during a deeply personal journey.
The Future of Reproductive Medicine
Il Dr. Luis Guzman, responsible of Pranor Labs & Science who supervised the fertilization cycle, emphasizes the importance of this milestone. The ability to mature eggs outside the body with minimal hormonal intervention significantly reduces risks and side effects.
The company is expanding the availability of this method and has already obtained regulatory approval in Peru, Japan, Australia, Mexico and Paraguay. Phase 3 studies are also underway in the United States.
For millions of people facing challenges related to fertility, this innovation represents real hope. The simplification of the process, the reduction of risks and greater accessibility to treatment could change countless lives, opening up new possibilities for those who want to start or expand their family. Not bad news, on the eve of a Nativity :)
