Links between successful IVF treatment and daily light-dark cycles
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A study to explore the possibility of a link between the outcome of IVF treatment and daily biological clock of patients
IRAS ID
207757
Contact name
LP Waley
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Warwick Medical School
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 24 days
Research summary
Previous evidence suggests a correlation between circadian rhythms and fertility through various mechanisms such as oestrus cycles, ovulation, sperm generation, implantation and pregnancy maintenance. As well as this, numerous drugs are found to more effective if given at different parts in a patient’s natural circadian rhythm (the basis of chronotherapy). There has been less exploration of the use of chronotherapy and IVF. This study focuses on whether or not a woman is more or less likely to have a successful cycle of IVF if egg collection occurs at certain times in their own daily light-dark cycle.
The research will take place at the Centre for Reproductive Medicine at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust as part of a study conducted by a medical student at Warwick Medical School. Patients undergoing IVF treatment will be offered questionnaires to establish their basic light-dark cycles, which will be analysed in relation to the time of egg collection and the outcome of the IVF treatment.
In addition, the study will compare quantitative data on the growth of the individual embryos using the Embryoscope time lapse system at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust in order to test whether a definitive, biological cause can be identified.
Ultimately, the aim of the study is to test whether there is a link between egg collection in IVF and circadian rhythms, which may provide ideas for further applications of chronotherapy use in fertility research.REC name
North East - Tyne & Wear South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/NE/0277
Date of REC Opinion
10 Aug 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion