Glassware, such as petri dishes, commonly used in IVF procedures, has been found to leach harmful zinc ions, which severely impair mouse embryo formation and development, according to new research published in Biology of Reproduction.

Introducing a 'chelating agent', such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), a chemical which 'mops up' zinc ions, significantly improved IVF outcomes.

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