Overview

• The IBEC team engineered 2D and 3D collagen-protein matrices that simulate uterine outer layers to enable time-lapse observation of blastocyst implantation.
• In the 2D setup 72% of human blastocysts attached and invaded up to 200 µm into the gel, while the 3D configuration achieved an 80% survival and invasion rate.
• Traction force microscopy captured pulsatile pulling forces exerted by embryos, showing that these mechanical cues continuously remodel the surrounding matrix during invasion.
• Comparative tests demonstrated that mouse blastocysts remained surface-limited, whereas human embryos fully burrowed into and integrated with the simulated uterine tissue.
• Researchers are now pursuing theoretical modelling and follow-up experiments to probe initial attachment and add maternal components, highlighting both IVF promise and model limitations alongside disclosed commercial partnerships.