Integration of Bioengineered Tools in Assisted Reproductive Technologies

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Bioengineering
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Infertility impacts approximately 17.5% of adults globally, creating significant challenges.
• Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are crucial for managing infertility.
• Advances in bioengineering and reproductive medicine offer new solutions for ART.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review microengineered and stem cell-based platforms for improving ART.
• To synthesize current research on enhancing gamete handling, fertilization, embryo culture, and implantation.
• To identify challenges and future directions for bioengineering in reproductive therapies.

Main Methods:

• Review of microfluidic systems for sperm selection and processing.
• Analysis of devices for oocyte handling and cryopreservation.
• Examination of stem cell-based embryo models and bioengineered endometrial platforms.

Main Results:

• Microfluidic devices show promise in sperm sorting and reducing gamete stress.
• Specialized devices for oocyte processing and cryopreservation are emerging.
• Stem cell models and bioengineered platforms aim to mimic in vivo reproductive environments.

Conclusions:

• Microengineering and stem cell technologies offer potential to enhance ART procedures.
• Further development is needed for broader application, especially in oocyte handling and embryo culture.
• Addressing scalability, reproducibility, clinical validation, and ethical concerns is crucial for future progress.