procedure in which to form an embryo in the laboratory in which a sperm is directly injected into the cytoplasm of ovum

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Procedure**:
- The procedure described is known as **Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)**. This is a specialized form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) used primarily for couples facing infertility issues.

2. **Purpose of ICSI**:
- ICSI is specifically designed for couples who are unable to conceive naturally. This can be due to various reasons, such as the male partner not producing viable sperm or the female partner not producing healthy eggs.

3. **Gamete Collection**:
- In ICSI, the male gamete (sperm) is collected from the male partner or a donor. Similarly, the female gamete (ovum or egg) is obtained from the female partner or a donor.

4. **Laboratory Conditions**:
- The collected sperm and ovum are placed in a controlled laboratory environment that mimics the natural conditions necessary for fertilization.

5. **Injection Process**:
- A single sperm is directly injected into the cytoplasm of the ovum using a fine needle. This method increases the chances of fertilization, especially when sperm quality is poor.

6. **Formation of Zygote**:
- After the sperm successfully fertilizes the ovum, a zygote is formed. This zygote is the initial cell formed when the sperm and egg combine.

7. **Development into Embryo**:
- The zygote undergoes cell division and develops into an embryo in the laboratory.

8. **Transfer of Embryo**:
- Once the embryo reaches a suitable stage of development, it is transferred into the female partner's fallopian tube using a technique known as **Zygote Intra-Fallopian Transfer (ZIFT)**. This helps in implanting the embryo into the uterus for potential pregnancy.

9. **Outcome**:
- If successful, the embryo will implant in the uterus, leading to pregnancy. The resulting baby is often referred to as a "test-tube baby" due to the laboratory procedures involved.