New Fertility Treatments May Reduce Chromosomal Errors
Experimental research shows promise in helping eggs mature with the correct chromosome count for fertility.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Women’s Health
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Researchers are investigating new treatments aimed at reducing chromosomal errors in human eggs, a primary barrier to successful fertility for women over 40. Early experimental findings show promise in preventing these genetic mistakes during egg development.
Why it matters
As women age, the natural decline of specific proteins disrupts chromosome alignment, increasing the risk of eggs having an incorrect number of chromosomes. Addressing these molecular changes could eventually offer new ways to support egg health during fertility treatments.
In early research, the molecule Lyvanta increased successful egg maturation to 66% compared to 36% in untreated controls. These preliminary findings, which also include mouse study data, are designed to test if modifying specific enzymes can prevent chromosomal decay in eggs.
The players
Ovo Labs
A biotechnology firm founded in 2025 that specializes in developing fertility treatments.
U-Ploid Biotechnologies
An Oxford-based company focused on creating molecular interventions to address chromosomal abnormalities.
The details
The treatments focus on stabilizing the biological machinery that organizes chromosomes. EmbryoProtect 1, developed by Ovo Labs, is injected into immature eggs to prevent the degradation of cohesin, a protein complex essential for holding chromosomes together. Meanwhile, U-Ploid Biotechnologies' molecule, Lyvanta, slows the enzyme separase, which typically cleaves the Shugoshin 1 protein. By protecting these structural components, researchers hope to improve the chances of eggs maturing with the correct 23 pairs of chromosomes.
Timeline
2018: 40% of women seeking fertility treatments were over age 38.
2023: One in six British fertility patients were over 40.
October 26, 2026: Researchers presented early findings at a reproductive medicine conference in Baltimore.
November 5, 2026: Ovo Labs expects to publish additional data regarding its engineered cohesin treatment.
Health Landscape
These experimental treatments build on long-standing research into the role of protein degradation in reproductive aging, historically explored at the Max Planck Institute in Göttingen. The current industry focus represents an effort to move these biological insights from the lab into the clinical pipeline.
While these developments are currently in the experimental stage, they highlight why discussing age-related fertility factors with a reproductive endocrinologist is essential. Individuals concerned about egg quality should consult their physician to understand currently available screening and treatment options.
The takeaway
Advancements in understanding how proteins like cohesin keep chromosomes stable may one day transform fertility care for older patients. For now, focus on the fundamentals by maintaining regular checkups with a fertility specialist to track your specific reproductive health markers.
What happens next
Ovo Labs is scheduled to release additional study results on an engineered cohesin treatment on November 5, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest research and clinical developments in Women’s Health.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Economist.
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