HELIOS: Human Embryo Illumination to Enhance Development

Embryo development is highly energy-dependent, and impaired mitochondrial function is a well-established hallmark of reproductive aging. As women age, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulate and cause mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage, leading to reduced oxidative phosphorylation, ATP (Adenosine 5'-triphosphate) depletion, and developmental arrest of embryos. Enhancing mitochondrial function represents a promising strategy to improve embryo quality, particularly in women of advanced maternal age.

Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT), involves the application of low-intensity red or near-infrared (NIR) light to modulate mitochondrial activity. NIR light specifically activates cytochrome c oxidase, leading to increased ATP production, reduced oxidative stress, and improved cellular resilience. Numerous preclinical studies, including isolated mitochondria, cell cultures, and in vivo animal models, have confirmed the safety and efficacy of NIR light in restoring mitochondrial function without inducing DNA damage or chromosomal abnormalities.

The investigators previously conducted IRB-approved laboratory studies using mouse and donated human embryos, demonstrating that brief exposure to PBM improved blastocyst formation without adversely affecting chromosomal status.

The current study builds upon this foundational work to evaluate the clinical impact of PBM during embryo culture in IVF. In a randomized, blinded, sibling-embryo design, the investigators will test whether PBM improves blastocyst formation, embryo quality, and pregnancy outcomes in participants undergoing IVF or ICSI (Intracytoplasmic sperm injection) with PGT-A (preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy) using their autologous oocytes.