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Microfluidic retention of progressively motile zebrafish sperms
Bivas Panigrahi1, Chia-Yuan Chen1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, No. 1 University Road, Tainan 701, Taiwan. chiayuac@mail.ncku.edu.tw.
Lab on a Chip
|November 21, 2019
Summary
Researchers developed a novel microfluidic device to efficiently select superior zebrafish sperm for cryopreservation. This method improves sperm retrieval efficiency, aiding in the preservation of genetically modified zebrafish strains.
Area of Science:
- Aquatic biology
- Reproductive science
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Cryopreservation of zebrafish sperm is crucial for preserving genetically modified strains.
- Existing cryopreservation methods can alter genetic integrity.
- A method is needed to select viable zebrafish sperm for in vitro fertilization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an efficient microfluidic method for selecting morphologically superior and motile zebrafish sperm.
- To overcome the challenge of controlling zebrafish sperm orientation in microfluidic environments.
Main Methods:
- A novel microfluidic device design incorporating PDMS baffles was developed.
- Microscale confinement and flow stagnation zones were utilized for sperm retention.
- Two distinct microfluidic device designs were tested under controlled flow conditions.
Main Results:
- The modified baffle design demonstrated a 44% improvement in sperm retrieval efficiency.
- At a flow rate of 0.7 μL min⁻¹, 80% of sperm entering retention zones were retained.
- Hydrodynamic properties significantly influence zebrafish sperm kinematics and retention.
Conclusions:
- The developed microfluidic device offers a highly efficient method for zebrafish sperm manipulation and selection.
- This technique enhances the prospects for successful in vitro fertilization and cryopreservation of zebrafish.
- The study highlights the importance of hydrodynamic control in microfluidic sperm sorting.
