The developmental potential of a mammalian oocyte for successful implantation is evaluated by producing a plurality of intensity images of the oocyte using polarized light optics, and calculating a retardance image with a sensitivity of 3 nm or less. The presence, location and morphological characteristics of a meiotic spindle in the oocyte can then be determined based on the spindle structure in the retardance image, and the developmental potential of the oocyte can be evaluated.
Meiotic spindle imaging in oocytes and uses therefor in in vitro fertilization