Tambre’s research power is once again at the forefront of ASEBIR 2025. From 12 to 14 November, Barcelona is hosting the 13th Congress of the Association for the Study of Reproductive Biology (ASEBIR), the leading scientific meeting on assisted reproduction in Spain, bringing together embryologists, gynaecologists and researchers from across the country. At this year’s event, Grupo Tambre and its Foundation are once again among the centres making the greatest scientific contribution, with seven research projects, one of which has been selected for oral presentation — an honour reserved for the most relevant studies for their rigour and clinical value.

The conference was attended by the Director of Tambre Laboratories, Dr Susana Cortés, the Director of Alicante Laboratories, Leonor Ortega, embryologist Carolina Cordero, the Director of International Expansion, Inmaculada Olid, and the CEO of Grupo Tambre, Inge Kormelink.

Leadership in research to put scientific work at the service of patients, resulting in real improvements: more precise, safer and more personalised treatments.

Oral presentation: sperm DNA and embryo health

The most notable work, presented on Thursday 13 November as an oral communication, is entitled: “Differences in euploidy rates in treated and untreated semen with high fragmentation”.

This study, led by Leonor Ortega together with the Tambre laboratory team, explores whether sperm selection techniques truly help improve the genetic quality of embryos when sperm samples show high levels of DNA damage.

The analysis of 158 egg donation cycles showed that although sperm selection treatments (such as Fertile Chip or Sperm-Slow) reduce fragmentation, no significant differences were found in the proportion of euploid embryos compared to untreated groups. This suggests that these techniques should be applied with precise indication and supported by broader studies evaluating additional factors such as implantation or pregnancy rates.

For patients, this means that sperm quality is essential, but additional interventions are not always required. Precision medicine based on testing and evidence remains the safest path to success.

The value of observing the invisible: the embryo’s inner cell mass

Another study presented, “Impact of the position of the inner cell mass on the implantation potential of the embryo”, addresses a key aspect of embryonic development: the position of the inner cell mass (ICM), the cluster of cells that will develop into the future baby.

Led by Susana Cortés Gallego, the research analysed more than 300 biopsied embryos and showed that embryos with an ICM well positioned within the zona pellucida have significantly higher pregnancy rates. This highlights the importance of performing embryo biopsy accurately and at the appropriate time.

Clinically, this study offers practical guidance for embryologists and clear evidence for patients: time-lapse technology and laboratory expertise are crucial to protecting the embryo’s potential.

Sperm selection under the microscope

In the study “Impact of sperm selection and fragmentation on embryo kinetics and clinical success”, the Tambre team analysed how different sperm selection techniques influence the developmental pace of embryos monitored with time-lapse incubators and CHLOE AI software.

Although differences in cell division speed were observed among techniques, final clinical pregnancy rates remained unchanged. This reinforces the idea that sperm selection strategies should be applied individually rather than universally.

Clinical decisions: conventional IVF or ICSI?

In the study “Critical decisions in fertility: preference between conventional IVF and ICSI”, researchers analysed more than 1,500 cycles to understand why most clinics choose ICSI even when conventional IVF is a viable option.

Findings indicate that the preference for ICSI is often driven by fear of fertilisation failure rather than true medical need. In young women without severe sperm abnormalities, conventional IVF achieves comparable success and may avoid a more invasive procedure.

The paternal contribution to embryo quality

The studies “Does the combination of sperm fragmentation and semen quality affect embryonic euploidy?” and “Impact of sperm DNA fragmentation treatment techniques on pregnancy rates” examined various aspects of the male factor in fertility.

Both studies agree on an encouraging conclusion: when proper sperm selection protocols are used, high sperm DNA fragmentation does not compromise reproductive outcomes. This offers reassurance to many couples whose difficulties in conceiving are linked to the sperm factor.

New culture media: real efficacy vs. promises

The study “Impact of SAGE 1-Step™ GM-CSF medium on pregnancy rates of cryopreserved euploid embryos” assessed whether this “cytokine” medium — marketed as a booster for transfer success — provides measurable benefits compared with standard media.

The data did not reveal clear differences in clinical pregnancy rates. However, the team believes it is necessary to further refine the size and
selection of the study cohort to more precisely identify the patient profiles in which a potential benefit may be observed.

Applied research, the hallmark of the Tambre Foundation

The seven studies presented at ASEBIR 2025 all share one characteristic: they originate in daily clinical practice and return to it with conclusions that directly inform treatment decisions.

The Tambre Foundation promotes this scientific work, supporting projects that seek not only to better understand fertility mechanisms but also to improve patient experience and outcomes.

Science that transforms practice

Tambre’s participation in ASEBIR 2025 is more than an academic achievement — it reflects how sustained, rigorous research translates into real, evidence-based treatments.

At Tambre, science travels to conferences and is applied every day in the clinic and the laboratory to make each patient’s dream a reality.

At Tambre, research is not an isolated laboratory but a bridge towards reproductive success. If you are considering having a baby and are searching for a centre where science works for you, request your first appointment and discover how knowledge can bring you closer to your dream.