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Sperm Collection of Differential Quality Using Density Gradient Centrifugation
Published on: November 29, 2018
Sperm quality assessment via separation and sedimentation in a microfluidic device
Chang-Yu Chen1, Tsun-Chao Chiang, Cheng-Ming Lin
1Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, 1 Roosevelt Road, Section 4, Taipei 106, Taiwan.
The Analyst
|July 3, 2013
Summary
This study introduces a microfluidic device for assessing male infertility by measuring total sperm concentration and motility. The device offers an accurate, simple, and rapid method for sperm quality analysis.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Male infertility is a significant concern, often linked to sperm quality.
- Assessing total sperm concentration and motility is crucial but challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel microfluidic device for simultaneous quantification of total and motile sperm counts.
- To offer a simple, accurate, and user-friendly method for sperm quality assessment.
Main Methods:
- A microfluidic chip with two channels separated by a permeable phase-guide.
- Semen sample in one channel, buffer in the other; sperm migration based on motility.
- Centrifugation to form pellets, with pellet size indicating sperm concentration.
Main Results:
- The device accurately quantifies total sperm concentration (up to 10^8/ml) and motility (10-70%).
- Results show strong correlation and agreement with the Makler chamber for both total sperm concentration (R²=0.97) and motility (R²=0.84).
- Patient sample analysis demonstrated robust and reproducible pellet formation.
Conclusions:
- The microfluidic device provides an accurate and easy-to-use tool for sperm quality analysis.
- This technology has the potential to simplify and improve the assessment of male fertility.
- The device integrates total and motile sperm concentration analysis in a single step.
