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Lapizco-Encinas BH. Nonlinear Electrokinetic Methods of Particles and Cells. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (PALO ALTO, CALIF.) 2024; 17:243-264. [PMID: 38360552 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-061622-040810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Nonlinear electrokinetic phenomena offer label-free, portable, and robust approaches for particle and cell assessment, including selective enrichment, separation, sorting, and characterization. The field of electrokinetics has evolved substantially since the first separation reports by Arne Tiselius in the 1930s. The last century witnessed major advances in the understanding of the weak-field theory, which supported developments in the use of linear electrophoresis and its adoption as a routine analytical technique. More recently, an improved understanding of the strong-field theory enabled the development of nonlinear electrokinetic techniques such as electrorotation, dielectrophoresis, and nonlinear electrophoresis. This review discusses the operating principles and recent applications of these three nonlinear electrokinetic phenomena for the analysis and manipulation of particles and cells and provides an overview of some of the latest developments in the field of nonlinear electrokinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca H Lapizco-Encinas
- Microscale Bioseparations Laboratory and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA;
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García‐Vázquez FA, Garrappa G, Luongo C, Hamze JG, Caballero M, Marco‐Jiménez F, Vicente Antón JS, Molina‐Cuberos GJ, Jiménez‐Movilla M. Magnetic-Assisted Control of Eggs and Embryos via Zona Pellucida-Linked Nanoparticles. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2306901. [PMID: 38447155 PMCID: PMC11095233 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202306901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Eggs and embryo manipulation is an important biotechnological challenge to enable positioning, entrapment, and selection of reproductive cells to advance into a new era of nature-like assisted reproductive technologies. Oviductin (OVGP1) is an abundant protein in the oviduct that binds reversibly to the zona pellucida, an extracellular matrix that surrounds eggs and embryos. Here, the study reports a new method coupling OVGP1 to magnetic nanoparticles (NP) forming a complex (NPOv). NPOv specifically surrounds eggs and embryos in a reversible manner. Eggs/embryos bound to NPOv can be moved or retained when subjected to a magnetic force, and interestingly only mature-competent eggs are attracted. This procedure is compatible with normal development following gametes function, in vitro fertilization, embryo development and resulting in the birth of healthy offspring. The results provide in vitro proof-of-concept that eggs and embryos can be precisely guided in the absence of physical contact by the use of magnets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Alberto García‐Vázquez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Mare NostrumUniversidad de MurciaMurcia30100Spain
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB‐Arrixaca)Murcia30120Spain
| | - Gabriela Garrappa
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Mare NostrumUniversidad de MurciaMurcia30100Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, Facultad de Medicina y Enfermería, Campus de Excelencia Mare NostrumUniversidad de MurciaMurcia30120Spain
- Insitituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA)RafaelaSanta Fe2300Argentina
| | - Chiara Luongo
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Mare NostrumUniversidad de MurciaMurcia30100Spain
| | - Julieta Gabriela Hamze
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB‐Arrixaca)Murcia30120Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, Facultad de Medicina y Enfermería, Campus de Excelencia Mare NostrumUniversidad de MurciaMurcia30120Spain
| | - María Caballero
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Mare NostrumUniversidad de MurciaMurcia30100Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, Facultad de Medicina y Enfermería, Campus de Excelencia Mare NostrumUniversidad de MurciaMurcia30120Spain
| | - Francisco Marco‐Jiménez
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología AnimalUniversitat Politècnica de ValènciaValencia46022Spain
| | | | - Gregorio J. Molina‐Cuberos
- Departamento de Electromagnetismo y Electrónica, Facultad de QuímicaUniversidad de MurciaMurcia30100Spain
| | - María Jiménez‐Movilla
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB‐Arrixaca)Murcia30120Spain
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, Facultad de Medicina y Enfermería, Campus de Excelencia Mare NostrumUniversidad de MurciaMurcia30120Spain
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Benhal P. Micro/Nanorobotics in In Vitro Fertilization: A Paradigm Shift in Assisted Reproductive Technologies. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:510. [PMID: 38675321 PMCID: PMC11052506 DOI: 10.3390/mi15040510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
In vitro fertilization (IVF) has transformed the sector of assisted reproductive technology (ART) by presenting hope to couples facing infertility challenges. However, conventional IVF strategies include their own set of problems such as success rates, invasive procedures, and ethical issues. The integration of micro/nanorobotics into IVF provides a prospect to address these challenging issues. This article provides an outline of the use of micro/nanorobotics in IVF specializing in advancing sperm manipulation, egg retrieval, embryo culture, and capacity future improvements in this swiftly evolving discipline. The article additionally explores the challenges and obstacles associated with the integration of micro/nanorobotics into IVF, in addition to the ethical concerns and regulatory elements related to the usage of advanced technologies in ART. A comprehensive discussion of the risk and safety considerations related to using micro/nanorobotics in IVF techniques is likewise presented. Through this exploration, we delve into the core principles, benefits, challenges, and potential impact of micro/nanorobotics in revolutionizing IVF procedures and enhancing affected person outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prateek Benhal
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA; ; Tel.: +1-240-972-1482
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, 1800 E. Paul Dirac Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
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Acharya B, Behera A, Behera S, Moharana S. Recent Advances in Nanotechnology-Based Drug Delivery Systems for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Reproductive Disorders. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:1336-1361. [PMID: 38412066 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c01064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Over the past decade, nanotechnology has seen extensive integration into biomedical applications, playing a crucial role in biodetection, drug delivery, and diagnostic imaging. This is especially important in reproductive health care, which has become an emerging and significant area of research. Global concerns have intensified around disorders such as infertility, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, erectile dysfunction, benign prostate hyperplasia, sexually transmitted infections, and reproductive cancers. Nanotechnology presents promising solutions to address these concerns by introducing innovative tools and techniques, facilitating early detection, targeted drug delivery, and improved imaging capabilities. Through the utilization of nanoscale materials and devices, researchers can craft treatments that are not only more precise but also more effective, significantly enhancing outcomes in reproductive healthcare. Looking forward, the future of nanotechnology in reproductive medicine holds immense potential for reshaping diagnostics, personalized therapies, and fertility preservation. The utilization of nanotechnology-driven drug delivery systems is anticipated to elevate treatment effectiveness, minimize side effects, and offer patients therapies that are not only more precise but also more efficient. This review aims to delve into the various types, properties, and preparation techniques of nanocarriers specifically designed for drug delivery in the context of reproductive disorders, shedding light on the current landscape and potential future directions in this dynamic field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biswajeet Acharya
- School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 752050, India
| | - Amulyaratna Behera
- School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 752050, India
| | | | - Srikanta Moharana
- Department of Chemistry, School of Applied Sciences, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 752050, India
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Karcz A, Van Soom A, Smits K, Van Vlierberghe S, Verplancke R, Pascottini OB, Van den Abbeel E, Vanfleteren J. Development of a Microfluidic Chip Powered by EWOD for In Vitro Manipulation of Bovine Embryos. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:bios13040419. [PMID: 37185494 PMCID: PMC10136516 DOI: 10.3390/bios13040419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Digital microfluidics (DMF) holds great potential for the alleviation of laboratory procedures in assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). The electrowetting on dielectric (EWOD) technology provides dynamic culture conditions in vitro that may better mimic the natural embryo microenvironment. Thus far, EWOD microdevices have been proposed for in vitro gamete and embryo handling in mice and for analyzing the human embryo secretome. This article presents the development of the first microfluidic chip utilizing EWOD technology designed for the manipulation of bovine embryos in vitro. The prototype sustains the cell cycles of embryos manipulated individually on the chips during in vitro culture (IVC). Challenges related to the chip fabrication as well as to its application during bovine embryo IVC in accordance with the adapted on-chip protocol are thoroughly discussed, and future directions for DMF in ARTs are indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Karcz
- Centre for Microsystems Technology (CMST), Imec and Ghent University, Technologiepark Zwijnaarde 126, 9052 Zwijnaarde, Belgium
- Reproductive Biology Unit (RBU), Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133 D4, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Reproductive Biology Unit (RBU), Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133 D4, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Katrien Smits
- Reproductive Biology Unit (RBU), Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133 D4, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Sandra Van Vlierberghe
- Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Campus Sterre, Building S4, Krijgslaan 281, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rik Verplancke
- Centre for Microsystems Technology (CMST), Imec and Ghent University, Technologiepark Zwijnaarde 126, 9052 Zwijnaarde, Belgium
| | - Osvaldo Bogado Pascottini
- Reproductive Biology Unit (RBU), Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133 D4, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Etienne Van den Abbeel
- Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jan Vanfleteren
- Centre for Microsystems Technology (CMST), Imec and Ghent University, Technologiepark Zwijnaarde 126, 9052 Zwijnaarde, Belgium
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Mastrorocco A, Cacopardo L, Temerario L, Martino NA, Tridente F, Rizzo A, Lacalandra GM, Robbe D, Carluccio A, Dell’Aquila ME. Investigating and Modelling an Engineered Millifluidic In Vitro Oocyte Maturation System Reproducing the Physiological Ovary Environment in the Sheep Model. Cells 2022; 11:cells11223611. [PMID: 36429039 PMCID: PMC9688735 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In conventional assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), oocytes are in vitro cultured in static conditions. Instead, dynamic systems could better mimic the physiological in vivo environment. In this study, a millifluidic in vitro oocyte maturation (mIVM) system, in a transparent bioreactor integrated with 3D printed supports, was investigated and modeled thanks to computational fluid dynamic (CFD) and oxygen convection-reaction-diffusion (CRD) models. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) from slaughtered lambs were cultured for 24 h under static (controls) or dynamic IVM in absence (native) or presence of 3D-printed devices with different shapes and assembly modes, with/without alginate filling. Nuclear chromatin configuration, mitochondria distribution patterns, and activity of in vitro matured oocytes were assessed. The native dynamic mIVM significantly reduced the maturation rate compared to the static group (p < 0.001) and metaphase II (MII) oocytes showed impaired mitochondria distribution (p < 0.05) and activity (p < 0.001). When COCs were included in a combination of concave+ring support, particularly with alginate filling, oocyte maturation and mitochondria pattern were preserved, and bioenergetic/oxidative status was improved (p < 0.05) compared to controls. Results were supported by computational models demonstrating that, in mIVM in biocompatible inserts, COCs were protected from shear stresses while ensuring physiological oxygen diffusion replicating the one occurring in vivo from capillaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Mastrorocco
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Ludovica Cacopardo
- Research Centre E. Piaggio, University of Pisa, Largo Lucio Lazzarino 1, 56122 Pisa, Italy
| | - Letizia Temerario
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Antonio Martino
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Federico Tridente
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Annalisa Rizzo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Str. Prov. Casamassima Km. 3, 70010 Valenzano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Michele Lacalandra
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Str. Prov. Casamassima Km. 3, 70010 Valenzano, Italy
| | - Domenico Robbe
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Augusto Carluccio
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Dell’Aquila
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies & Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona, 70125 Bari, Italy
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