This subspeciality unit of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology studies various techniques in assisted human reproduction. These include in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET), gametes. It also conducts research into follicular growth and oocyte maturation, endocrine response to ovarian hyperstimulation, and the biochemistry of follicular fluids. Facilities are provided in the Lee Hysan Clinical Research Laboratories at the Prince of Wales Hospital.
History of In Vitro Fertilization and Related Technologies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong
May 1985
Commencement of preparatory work to establish the Unit of Research on Assisted Human Reproduction in Lee Hysan Clinical Research Laboratories at the Prince of Wales Hospital
August 1987
Birth of first baby resulting from IVF at the Prince of Wales Hospital
November 1987
Birth of first baby resulting from GIFT in Hong Kong
1988
Establishment of cryopreservation of human embryo
May 1990
Birth of first set of twins derived from cryopreserved embryos in Hong Kong
February 1991
Birth of first set of twins resulting from PROST at the Prince of Wales Hospital
April 1994 Birth of first baby in Hong Kong from SUZI
IVF - In-vitro fertilization
GIFT - Gamete intrafallopian transfer
PROST - Pronuclear stage tubal transfer
SUZI - Subzonal insemination
Currently this unit is developing the technique of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for the treatment of male factor infertility.