System and method for assessing embryo viability
AssigneeTexas Tech University System
InventorsSamuel D. Prien, Lindsay L. Penrose
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Disclosed is a system for determining fecundity of an embryo utilizing a non¬invasive grading of early stage embryos (pre-hatching) based upon specific gravity, density and/or estimated weight. The system allows 100% recovery of embryos and can detect differences in growth potential at the earliest stages of development. The system may further enhance the development of embryos by utilization of microfluidic effects during use. The disclosed system supports a wide variety of scenarios for human and animal reproductive technologies and related products and services.
Claims13
A device for non-invasive selection and recovery of mammalian embryos having enhanced embryo development, comprising:
- a drop chamber comprising a lumen containing a biocompatible media composition extending vertically from a recovery pool having fluid communication with the lumen of the drop chamber;
- and
- a predetermined timing zone of said drop chamber having an upper and lower boundary of said predetermined timing zone capable of measurement of movement downward of each embryo through the biocompatible media composition in the drop chamber, and identification of the descent time of each embryo moving downward through the biocompatible media composition between the upper and lower boundaries of said predetermined timing zone to determine the estimated weight of each embryo, wherein a faster descent time indicates a higher estimated weight;
- wherein the recovery pool is capable of receiving the embryos from the lumen of the drop chamber, allowing for embryo recovery.
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Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.