Thorsen T., Urbanski J.-P., Johnson M.T., Craig D.D., Potter D.L., Gardner D.K.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, US
Keywords: in-vitro fertilization, metabolism, microfluidics
In recent years, microfluidics has demonstrated novel methods of culturing and studying cells. Within well-defined volumes comparable to the sample of interest, media, nutrients or toxins may be precisely targeted to individual cells via diffusion or advection, enabled by integrated valves and pumps. Tools that both enable a repeatable and systematic means of single embryo culture, as well as provide information on metabolic activity of individual embryos, would be of significant utility to the embryologist. To address the need of controlled culture environments and improve embryo health and subsequent positive implantation rates, we have developed programmable microfluidic devices for embryo culture and quantifying metabolite levels in the culture media.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2008: Microsystems, Photonics, Sensors, Fluidics, Modeling, and Simulation – Technical Proceedings of the 2008 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 3
Published: June 1, 2008
Pages: 245 - 248
Industry sectors: Medical & Biotech | Sensors, MEMS, Electronics
Topic: Micro & Bio Fluidics, Lab-on-Chip
ISBN: 978-1-4200-8505-1