Structural and biocompatibility challenges for 3D printed microfluidic devices for IVF

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a widely used treatment for infertility, but success rates for UK women under 35 stand at approximately 32%. Culture conditions significantly affect in-vitro embryo development and treatment efficacy. Over 40 years, IVF procedures evolved, with microfluidic platforms emerging to enhance culture conditions. These platforms, designed to mimic a natural environment, show promise without negatively affecting development rates. However, potential impacts on embryo characteristics require further evaluation. The study introduces a microfluidic concept compatible with time-lapse microscopy. Two prototyping methods are compared, being soft lithography in PDMS and 3D printing in HTL resin. Results indicate successful prototype detection and loading efficiency, with the soft lithographic method showing a lower assembly yield. 3D printing facilitates rapid design, in particular for high aspect ratio microfluidic devices. However, viability assessments suggest additional steps are required to exclude material embryo toxicity of the resin.