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Development of a spiral microfluidic platform for predicting reduced mechanical damage in oocyte denudation

Authors :

Ehsan Nabati¹ Maryam Saadatmand²

1- دانشگاه صنعتی شریف، تهران، ایران 2- دانشگاه صنعتی شریف، تهران، ایران

Keywords :

Infertility،Oocyte Denudation،Microfluidic Technology،CFD Simulations،Spiral Geometry

Abstract :

Infertility affects 1 in 6 couples globally, with a 20% prevalence rate in Iran. IVF and ICSI are the most effective treatments, with oocyte denudation being a critical step. Traditional methods like enzymatic and mechanical denudation often damage oocytes. This study investigates microfluidic technology with spiral geometry as a safer alternative for cell separation. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were used to analyze shear stress and particle movement in the microfluidic system. The results showed that the spiral design achieved uniform shear stress distribution, with a maximum shear stress of 180 Pascals, which is within the safe range for oocyte preservation. A flow rate of 1 mL/min was used, simulating experimental conditions. Egg yolk was used to model oocytes, with large and small particles representing oocytes and cumulus cells. The study found that larger particles moved toward the channel wall in higher concentrations, consistent with CFD predictions. The spiral geometry increased contact time between the oocyte and the channel wall, ensuring efficient and safe denudation without the need for enzymatic or mechanical methods. These findings suggest that spiral microfluidic designs hold great potential for improving oocyte denudation, offering a promising alternative to traditional methods in assisted reproductive technologies.