The most commonly applied methods of assisted reproduction (ART) include intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). This method is given preference over conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF), for example, in cases of a low sperm count or low sperm motility. With 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 procedure. In this regard, this piezo-activated method has the potential to open up new possibilities for the persons concerned. Women with fragile egg syndrome may benefit from piezo ICSI. With patients over 35 years of age, this technique has shown a better fertilization rate and a higher rate of blastocyst development.
Piezo Technology for High-Precision Guidance in Microfluidics
Microfluidic innovation centers on the integration of piezoceramic materials that change shape when electrical voltage is applied. Piezo actuators are able to exert mechanical forces with great precision, which is also of great use in the field of microfluidics. The latter relates to the behavior and manipulation of the tiniest quantities of liquid and gas, and is a driving force in innovative analytic, diagnostic, and therapeutic techniques.
With the piezo ICSI technique, for example, the glass microcapillary with the sperm cell inside is driven forward by an actuated piezo element in a precise movement, enabling it to pierce the coat (zona pellucida) and the surrounding cell membrane (oolemma) of the egg cell. The tip of the microcapillary can then be carefully introduced into the middle of the cytoplasm so that the sperm cell can be placed there.
Variable Piezo Impulses
The micromanipulators are connected to a microscope that facilitates movements of the ICSI micropipettes 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 with regard to the intensity and velocity of the piezo impulses. This makes it possible to fine-tune the operation to 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 the treatment of infertility that exploits the properties of piezoceramic elements to execute high-precision movements.
PI Ceramic develops and manufactures piezo elements based on many years of experience in the field of medical devices and provides advisory services to customers even at the development stage to determine the optimum design, and the perfect product for the specific applications.
