Microfluidic devices for enhancing in-vitro fertilization

Abstract

We propose the synergic operation of two devices that consist of a high quality sperm sorter and an oocytes zona-removal as well as incubation device for promoting the successful rate and the efficiency of In-vitro fertilization (IVF). The high quality sperm sorter can gently sort out large number of sperms in few minutes and keep high survival rate for oligospermia patients. The oocytes zona-removal and incubation device can rapidly reduce enzyme contraction after gently removing oocytes shell. Experiment results showed that these two devices not only provide an easier and faster method to sort out motile sperms as well as better preserve the viability of dezona oocytes, but also increase the attachment rate of sperms on oocytes for enhancing fertilization.