What do we do with what’s left over?
In assisted reproduction, supernumerary embryos —those not transferred or discarded— are becoming increasingly common. In Spain alone, it's estimated that over 790,000 embryos are cryopreserved, and at least 70,000 are abandoned.
But what if what we consider "leftover" is actually an untapped source of scientific innovation?
At the 2025 ESHRE Congress, Dr. Mina Popovic presented groundbreaking advances in the use of these embryos for basic research. Through extended culture up to day 12 in vitro, her team was able to analyze the development of mosaic, euploid, and aneuploid embryos in unprecedented detail.
Here are some key findings:
80% of mosaic embryos survived to day 12, showing development comparable to euploid embryos.
Genetic testing (PGT-A) showed a 69% rate of false mosaic diagnoses — embryos initially labeled as abnormal were actually normal.
Different chromosomal abnormalities had varying impacts on development: monosomies had the most severe effects.
A new ultra-fast blastocyst warming protocol was validated, reducing embryo stress and improving lab efficiency.
These results don’t just expand our scientific understanding—they also raise critical ethical and clinical questions: How many viable embryos are being discarded due to premature or inaccurate diagnostics?
At ReproCopilot, we believe technology can be a strategic ally in tackling fertility’s biggest challenges. Our platform does more than just trace genetic material — it automates complex processes, reduces operational load, and enables ethical, data-driven decision-making.
Key tools include:
“Cuida tu embrión”, our automated cryopreservation management platform, which regularizes embryo maintenance contracts, reduces abandonment, and empowers patient decisions — all without human intervention.
AI-powered auto-anamnesis, simplifying medical history collection and saving up to 20 minutes per first consultation.
Smart patient acquisition, using natural, empathetic automated conversations that improve conversion and prioritize clinical efforts.
All of this is designed to save time, optimize resources, and, most importantly, restore value to every embryo, even those not destined for implantation.
Research on surplus embryos helps us make decisions that are not only smarter but more humane and just. To do that, we need technology, ethical awareness, and collaboration.
👉 At ReproCopilot, we’re committed to bridging the gap between science, clinical practice, and the future of fertility.
Because unused embryos are not excess — they are opportunities waiting to be understood.