Memphasys tech shows advantages in small-scale sperm preparation trial

ASX-listed reproductive biotechnology company Memphasys has announced results showing “clear benefits” of its Felix technology versus two widely used technologies in a Japanese trial, with results from a larger-scale trial expected to be shared in late-2024.

According to an ASX statement from the company on Monday, the Felix System (pictured) outperformed a sperm preparation method based on two widely used technologies – “a combination of Density Gradient Centrifugation followed by Swim Up (DGC+SU)” – in a clinical trial at the Reproduction Clinic Osaka.

The clinic is a key opinion leader and an early adopter of Felix, which showed “clear benefits” from Felix “across most clinical measures” against the alternative preparation methods.

DGC+SU requires procedures including centrifugation and incubation, said the company, requiring around an hour to process, whereas Memphasys’s system is “a simple easy-to-use console and cartridge” requiring only six to seven minutes.  

The trial documented results from 45 infertile couples with 401 eggs collected and then split between the “Felix and the DGC+SU sperm preparation methods to produce embryos by Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) for subsequent implantation.” 

Felix’s results were numerically better “on most clinical measures”, including the embryo utilisation rate, though the scale of the trial meant comparisons “did not reach statistical significance”. A paper on the trial has been accepted for presentation at the June European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) conference..

Managing Director Dr David Ali said findings further highlight benefits of Felix versus widely used methods, while acknowledging the small sample size, adding that results were “numerically generally better on most clinical measures”. 

“In addition, the fact Felix is simpler to use and takes a significantly shorter time frame to use  would improve lab operations and workflow. This is a huge plus for process flow in IVF laboratories  which are always seeking efficiency and cost savings.”

Memphasys expects to release the results of a larger, randomised double-blinded study currently underway at Monash IVF towards the end of this year.

Picture: credit Memphasys

Further reading

Memphasys progresses freeze-free semen transporter

Memphasys receives first order from Vitrolife in Japan

Medical opinion lines up behind Memphasys’ sperm sorting device

Memphasys to launch new device to boost IVF success