Nuwa Life Submits IPO Prospectus for PIMS: A Next-Generation Assisted Reproductive Technology Leveraging Epigenetic Screening to Boost Live Birth Rates and Reduce Birth Defects

China has entered an era of negative population growth. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that the infertility rate in China has been rising year by year, reaching 12–18%, with nearly 50 million families currently affected by infertility. The optimal approach to addressing this issue is assisted reproductive technology (ART), specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). However, the current global live birth rate for ART remains below 30% (Lancet, 2021). More critically, according to the “Report on the Prevention and Control of Birth Defects in China,” the incidence of birth defects in China stands at 5.6%. Therefore, improving IVF live birth rates and reducing birth defects are urgent clinical challenges that need to be addressed.

To address the aforementioned clinical challenges, the Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (National Center for Bioinformation), Shandong University, and Guangzhou Nuwa Life Technology Co., Ltd. collaborated to pioneer the Preimplantation Epigenetic Marker Screening (PIMS) method for clinical embryo selection. This innovation shifts away from traditional morphology-based assessments reliant on subjective experience for determining embryo transfer order, instead utilizing molecular markers—specifically DNA methylation profiles—to optimize embryo selection. These findings were published in Cell Research on May 8, 2023.

Epigenetic modification via DNA methylation refers to the methylation of cytosine residues, which acts as a switch for gene expression. The correctness of DNA methylation status determines whether an infant can be born safely and healthily. Through screening with this technology, the live birth rate from high-quality embryos can reach 70%, significantly improving the success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF). This not only alleviates patient suffering but also reduces the economic burden on families and society.

PIMS can also screen for genetic disorders such as Down syndrome. Importantly, PIMS can detect epigenetic diseases—including imprinting disorders—that were previously undetectable. The incidence of imprinting disorders in IVF-conceived children is more than three times that of Down syndrome (French national health database).

In summary, PIMS technology represents a new generation of assisted reproductive technology (ART) capable of increasing live birth rates and promoting eugenics. The widespread adoption of PIMS will enable China to achieve leapfrog development in the field of ART, positioning it as an international leader. The implementation of PIMS is projected to result in over 100,000 additional healthy IVF babies annually in China, prevent nearly 10,000 cases of birth defects, and save tens of billions in clinical costs. Global promotion of PIMS will benefit more families struggling with infertility and help mitigate the global trend of negative population growth.