Does cytoplasmic transfer improve IVF success rates?

Some studies have reported improvements in fertilization or early embryo development. However, there is insufficient reliable evidence that it increases the chance of a live birth. Long-term safety, including outcomes for children, also remains uncertain.

Is it the same as using a donor egg?

No. Cytoplasmic transfer uses the patient’s own egg and retains its nuclear genetic material. However, donor mitochondria contain their own DNA, so mitochondrial DNA from the donor may also be present in a resulting child. In donor egg IVF, the donor’s egg is used.

Is cytoplasmic transfer the same as ICSI?

No. ICSI introduces a sperm cell directly into an egg. Cytoplasmic transfer introduces donor cytoplasm. They are different procedures, although cytoplasmic transfer may be performed alongside ICSI.

How does it differ from mitochondrial replacement?

Mitochondrial replacement techniques, such as spindle transfer or pronuclear transfer, move nuclear genetic material into a donor egg or fertilized donor egg whose nuclear material has been removed. They were developed to reduce the transmission of serious mitochondrial disease. Cytoplasmic transfer adds a small amount of donor cytoplasm to the patient’s egg.

Cytoplasmic transfer | DNA Clinic IVF Center

What is Cytoplasmic transfer

Cytoplasmic transfer, also called ooplasmic transfer, is an experimental laboratory technique in which a small amount of cytoplasm from a donor egg is introduced into a patient’s own egg.

Cytoplasm contains mitochondria and other components involved in energy production and cell function. The technique has been investigated as a way to support fertilization and early embryo development.

Cytoplasmic transfer is not part of standard IVF treatment. Its effectiveness, safety and long-term outcomes have not been established sufficiently for routine use.

How the procedure works

The patient’s fertility history, previous IVF results and available eggs are assessed. Potential benefits, uncertainties and established treatment alternatives should be discussed before any experimental approach is considered.

Assessment and preparation

A small amount of cytoplasm is collected from a donor egg and introduced into the patient’s egg using fine microinjection equipment. This transfers mitochondria and other cellular components while retaining the patient’s nuclear genetic material.

Transfer in the laboratory

Embryologists monitor fertilization and early embryo development. Improvements in laboratory results alone do not establish a higher chance of pregnancy or live birth.

Fertilization and embryo monitoring

Embryology microscope with gloved hand.png

Why it has been studied

Cytoplasmic transfer has been investigated in situations involving:

Repeated unsuccessful IVF cycles.
Concerns about egg quality, including age-related changes.
Embryos that stop developing at an early stage.
Suspected problems with the egg’s cytoplasmic function.

These are research contexts, not established indications. Previous IVF failure or older age does not, by itself, show that cytoplasmic transfer is appropriate.

Frequently asked questions

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Get in touch

Have questions about our treatments or success rates? Whether you’re nearby or abroad, our team is ready to assist you with every detail of your IVF journey.
Contact our team to schedule a free consultation or learn more about your options.

+994 10 321 11 83

info@dna-clinic.net

Azerbaijan, Baku.

Badamdar District.