The rapid pace of development and refinement of in vitro fertilization and ancillary assisted reproductive techniques warrants periodic review to keep the reader abreast of the growth in this clinical and scientific arena. Although not exhaustive, this review targets key areas of special interest and significance, including oocyte and embryo micromanipulation for assisted fertilization and genetic analysis, advances in the approach to ovarian stimulation, and examination of the scientific model afforded by ovum donation.