One of the most common methods of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) is Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). This method is preferred over conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF), for example, in cases of a low sperm count or low sperm motility. During an ICSI procedure, a single sperm cell is injected into each mature egg cell. Each one of these attempts increases the success rate for the couple undergoing the treatment. In this regard, the piezo-activated method has the potential to open new possibilities for those affected. Women with fragile egg syndrome may benefit from Piezo-ICSI. Additionally, this technique has demonstrated improved fertilization rates and a higher rate of blastocyst development in patients over the age of 35.
Piezo Technology for High-Precision Guidance in Microfluidics
At the heart of microfluidic innovation is the integration of piezoelectric materials, which change shape in response to electrical voltage. Piezo actuators can exert mechanical forces with high precision, which is beneficial in microfluidics. This field focuses on the behavior and manipulation of the tiniest amounts of liquid and gases and is a driving force behind innovative analysis, diagnosis, and therapy techniques.
For instance, in the Piezo-ICSI procedure, an activated piezo element drives a glass micropipette containing the captured sperm in a precise motion, allowing it to penetrate the zona pellucida and the surrounding cell membrane (oolemma) of the egg. Subsequently, the tip of the micropipette can be carefully inserted into the center of the cytoplasm to place the sperm directly.
Variable Piezo Impulses
Micromanipulators connected to a microscope allow for the precise control of micropipette movements in ICSI for egg and sperm cells. The piezo unit can be combined with the micromanipulators, and the control unit can be set up and adjusted by the manufacturer regarding the intensity and velocity of the piezo impulses. This enables accurate alignment with the protective membrane and the egg cell. Prior to injection, piezo impulses can also be used to immobilize the sperm cells.
Piezo-ICSI is a valuable approach to infertility treatment, leveraging the properties of piezoceramic elements to execute highly precise movements.
PI Ceramic develops and manufactures piezo elements based on many years of experience in the field of medical devices, offering consultancy to clients in the development phase to determine the optimal design, and the perfect product for specific applications.
