pICSI is an advanced form of ICSI that uses hyaluronan to help embryologists identify and select mature sperm that may have better DNA quality. By using this additional selection step, pICSI aims to support the selection of sperm that are more suitable for fertilisation in certain patients.
Physiological ICSI (pICSI) is an advanced variation of ICSI that helps us select the most suitable sperm for fertilisation.It uses a naturally occurring substance in the body to identify sperm that are more mature and may have better DNA quality.
Hyaluronan is a molecule that is found around eggs in the human body. Mature, viable sperm bind to hyaluronan molecules and break them down on their journey to meet and fertilise an egg.
Physiological intracytoplasmic sperm injection (pICSI) is a type of ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) – Oasis Fertility Centre) insemination in which a solution containing hyaluronan is added to the sperm. Only mature sperm with better DNA quality bind to the hyaluronan. These sperm are easily identifiable as they cease swimming forward, instead beating their tails but remaining stationary. Embryologists are then able to select sperm for ICSI injection from the affected group of sperm.
It is thought that the use of sperm that has demonstrated hyaluronan binding may improve clinical outcomes in some patients.
We understand that advanced options like pICSI can feel complex. Our role is to simplify the science and support you with clear, honest guidance so you can feel confident in the decisions you make.
Physiological ICSI (pICSI) is a variation of ICSI that uses hyaluronan to help identify mature sperm for injection into the egg.
A hyaluronan-containing solution is added to the sperm. Mature sperm that bind to hyaluronan can then be identified and selected by embryologists for ICSI.
Hyaluronan is a naturally occurring molecule found around human eggs. Mature sperm naturally bind to it as part of the fertilisation process.
pICSI may be considered for patients with a history of poor embryo development, high sperm DNA fragmentation, poor fertilisation despite ICSI, or previous miscarriage.
The use of sperm that demonstrate hyaluronan binding may improve clinical outcomes for some patients, although it is not suitable or beneficial for everyone.
No. pICSI is an additional treatment option and your fertility team can help determine whether it may be appropriate based on your individual circumstances
