Sperm sorting device and method

Abstract

A sperm sorting device is suitable for sorting a plurality of motile sperm from a semen sample, and includes a base and a first sorter positioned on the base. The base includes a receiving space defined by a bottom wall and a surrounding wall. The first sorter includes a first kit and a first permeable membrane. The first kit has a first sleeve for being placed into the receiving space. The first sleeve has a first inner sleeve surface and a first outer sleeve surface. The first permeable membrane is fixed to the first sleeve. The first permeable membrane and the inner wall surface of the bottom wall and the surrounding wall define a first sample receiving chamber for receiving the semen sample. In this way, the motile sperm can naturally swim upward and pass through the first permeable membrane, and the quality of sperm sorting can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of cell biology, and in particular to a sperm sorting device and method. Background Technology

[0002] See Figure 1 The sperm sorting system 10 disclosed in US Patent 10,422,737B2 includes a housing 12 having an inlet 11, a collection chamber 13 disposed in the housing 12 and located beside the inlet 11, a microfluidic chip 14 mounted on the bottom side of the housing 12, a flow passage 15 extending from the inlet 11 to the collection chamber 13, and a filter 16 disposed in the collection chamber 13. The collection chamber 13 has a bottom chamber 17 near the microfluidic chip 14 and a top chamber 18 located in front of the bottom chamber 17 and away from the microfluidic chip 14. The bottom chamber 17 is used to collect a semen sample injected into the flow passage 15 from the inlet 11. Motile sperm in the semen sample swim upwards through the filter 16 and enter the top chamber 18, thereby achieving the effect of sperm sorting.

[0003] Although the sperm sorting system 10 can sort sperm, it has the following problems:

[0004] First, the flow passage 15 and the bottom chamber 17 are originally filled with air, and the micropores of the filter 16 for motile sperm to pass through are quite small and have poor air permeability. Thus, when the semen sample is injected into the flow passage 15 from the inlet 11 and enters the bottom chamber 17, the pushing pressure generated will compress the volumetric airflow in the bottom chamber 17. This pushing pressure will push the semen sample entering the bottom chamber 17 towards the top chamber 18. As a result, some poorly motile sperm are pushed through the filter 16 into the top chamber 18, causing the sperm obtained from the top chamber 18 to not all be highly motile sperm, resulting in poor sperm sorting quality.

[0005] Second, because the distance between the inlet 11 and the bottom chamber 17 is relatively long and has two turns, a syringe must be used to inject the semen sample from the inlet 11 into the flow passage 15 in order to generate pushing pressure to push the semen sample into the bottom chamber 17, which is inconvenient to operate.

[0006] Third, after the sorting operation is completed, if the sorted sperm are to be analyzed, the entire sperm sorting system 10 must be taken to a microscope for analysis, which is not very convenient. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The primary objective of this invention is to provide a sperm sorting device that can improve sperm sorting quality.

[0008] The present invention relates to a sperm sorting device, which is suitable for sorting multiple motile sperm from a semen sample. The sperm sorting device includes a base and a sorting unit.

[0009] The base includes a bottom wall and a surrounding wall extending from the periphery of the bottom wall toward the top and around an axis, the bottom wall and the surrounding wall cooperating to define an accommodating space with an opening, the surrounding wall having an inner wall surface and a top surface;

[0010] The sorting unit includes a first sorter for positioning on the base, the first sorter having a first kit and a first permeable membrane; the first kit having a first sleeve surrounding the axis and for insertion into the receiving space, the first sleeve having a first inner cylinder surface and a first outer cylinder surface surrounding the first inner cylinder surface; the first permeable membrane being fixed to the first sleeve and cooperating with the first inner cylinder surface to define a first sorting chamber with an open top, the first permeable membrane having a plurality of first micropores for the passage of the motile sperm;

[0011] The first permeable membrane, together with the inner wall of the bottom wall and the surrounding wall, defines a first specimen chamber for accommodating the semen specimen.

[0012] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes another first sorter in the sorting unit. The first sleeve of the other first sorter is inserted into the first sleeve of the first sorter, and the other first sorter and the first sorter are stacked along the axis.

[0013] In the sperm sorting device of the present invention, the inner wall surface of the surrounding wall cooperates with the first outer cylinder surface of the first sleeve to define a first permeable gap connecting the first specimen chamber.

[0014] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a first convex ring extending from the top of the first sleeve toward a direction away from the axis and located on the top surface of the surrounding wall.

[0015] In the sperm sorting device of the present invention, the inner wall surface of the surrounding wall cooperates with the first outer cylinder surface of the first sleeve to define a first permeable gap connecting the first specimen chamber. The first convex ring has a top surface, a bottom surface and a circumferential surface connecting the top surface and the bottom surface. The bottom surface forms a first air escape groove extending from the first outer cylinder surface to the circumferential surface and connecting the first permeable gap.

[0016] The sperm sorting device of the present invention includes a first convex ring having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a circumferential surface connecting the top surface and the bottom surface. The sperm sorting device further includes a height adjustment unit, comprising a first step disposed on the top surface of the base and radially opposite to each other; a second step connected to the first step and with a lower height along the axis than the first step and radially opposite to each other; a third step connecting the first step and the second step and with a lower height along the axis than the second step and radially opposite to each other; a first seat disposed on the bottom surface of the ring and radially opposite to each other; a second seat connected to the first seat and radially opposite to each other; and a third seat connecting the first seat and the second seat and radially opposite to each other. When the first seat is placed on the third step and the second seat is placed on the second step, the third seat... The sperm sorting device, positioned on the first step, has a first height along the axis, a first permeable gap with a first air capacity, and a first sorting chamber with a first volume. When the first seat is positioned on the second step, the second seat is located on the first step, and the third seat is located on the third step, the sperm sorting device has a second height along the axis, the first permeable gap with a second air capacity, and the first sorting chamber with a second volume. When the first seat is positioned on the first step, the second seat is located on the third step, and the third seat is located on the second step, the sperm sorting device has a third height along the axis, the first permeable gap with a third air capacity. The third air capacity is greater than the second air capacity, which is greater than the first air capacity, and the third volume is greater than the second volume, which is greater than the first volume.

[0017] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a height adjustment unit, the height adjustment unit including a first internal thread section located on the inner wall surface of the surrounding wall of the base, and an external thread section located on the first outer cylinder surface of the first sleeve for screwing into the first internal thread section.

[0018] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a height adjustment unit, the height adjustment unit including a first internal thread section located on the inner wall surface of the surrounding wall of the base, an external thread section located on the first outer cylinder surface of the first sleeve for screwing into the first internal thread section, and a second internal thread section located on the first inner cylinder surface of the first sleeve.

[0019] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a gasket installed between the top surface of the surrounding wall of the base and the first convex ring.

[0020] In the sperm sorting device of the present invention, an overflow groove is formed on the top surface of the surrounding wall.

[0021] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a second sorter in the sorting unit. The first sleeve of the first assembly of the first sorter has a first bottom surface connecting the first inner cylinder surface and the first outer cylinder surface. The first permeable membrane is fixed to the bottom surface of the first cylinder. The second sorter has a second assembly and a second permeable membrane. The second assembly has a second sleeve surrounding the axis and for insertion into the first sleeve, a second convex ring extending from the top of the second sleeve toward a direction away from the axis and located on the first convex ring, and an inner ring extending from the bottom of the second sleeve toward a direction close to the axis and tapering toward the top. The second sleeve has a second inner cylinder surface, a second outer cylinder surface surrounding the second inner cylinder surface, and a second bottom surface connecting the second inner cylinder surface and the second outer cylinder surface. The second permeable membrane is fixed to the bottom surface of the second cylinder and cooperates with the inner ring to define a second sorting chamber open at the top. The second permeable membrane has a plurality of second micropores.

[0022] In the sperm sorting device of the present invention, the first inner cylinder surface of the first sleeve and the second outer cylinder surface of the second sleeve cooperate to define a second transparent gap that connects to the first sorting chamber.

[0023] The sperm sorting device of the present invention has a second convex ring of the second sorter having a top surface, a bottom surface and a circumferential surface connecting the top surface and the bottom surface. The bottom surface of the second convex ring forms a second air escape groove that extends from the second outer cylinder surface to the circumferential surface and communicates with the second permeable gap.

[0024] In the sperm sorting device of the present invention, the first permeable pore is less than 3 mm.

[0025] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes an annular groove on the inner wall surface of the surrounding wall, and the first sorter also has a first annular groove on the first inner cylinder surface of the first sleeve.

[0026] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a snap-fit ​​unit disposed between the top surface of the surrounding wall and the first protruding ring. The snap-fit ​​unit includes at least one snap block disposed on one of the top surface of the surrounding wall and the first protruding ring, and at least one snap groove corresponding to the snap block disposed on the other of the top surface of the surrounding wall and the first protruding ring.

[0027] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a central protrusion extending from the center of the bottom wall along the axis toward the top and gradually decreasing in diameter.

[0028] The sperm sorting device of the present invention has a central protrusion having a truncated conical surface and a plurality of spacer ribs equidistantly arranged on the truncated conical surface.

[0029] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a liquid extractor socket disposed on the first inner cylinder surface of the first kit and located in the first sorting chamber.

[0030] The sperm sorting device of the present invention has a liquid collector socket with a hole, the diameter of which is between 4μm and 5mm.

[0031] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a liquid collector auxiliary frame in the sorting unit. The liquid collector auxiliary frame includes multiple connecting ribs located inside the first inner cylinder surface of the first sleeve and gradually approaching the axis, and a bottom liquid collection block connected to the bottom end of the connecting ribs and located at the top end of the first permeable membrane.

[0032] The sperm sorting device of the present invention has a first specimen chamber with a volume between 12 μL and 400 ml.

[0033] In the sperm sorting device of the present invention, the distance between the first permeable membrane and the bottom wall is between 50 μm and 8.5 cm.

[0034] In the sperm sorting device of the present invention, the area of ​​the first permeable membrane is less than 180 cm². 2 .

[0035] In the sperm sorting device of the present invention, the pore size of each first micropore is between 2 μm and 50 μm.

[0036] The sperm sorting device of the present invention has a first permeable membrane having a fixed portion surrounding the axis and fixed to the first sleeve, and a permeable portion extending from the fixed portion toward the axis, wherein the permeable portion extends in a non-flat manner.

[0037] The present invention relates to a sperm sorting device, which is suitable for sorting multiple motile sperm from a semen sample. The sperm sorting device includes a base and a sorting unit.

[0038] The base includes a bottom wall and a surrounding wall extending from the periphery of the bottom wall toward the top and around an axis, the bottom wall and the surrounding wall cooperating to define an accommodating space with an opening, the surrounding wall having an inner wall surface and a top surface;

[0039] The sorting unit includes a second sorter for positioning on the base, the second sorter having a second assembly and a second permeable membrane; the second assembly having a second sleeve surrounding the axis and for insertion into the accommodating space, the second sleeve having a second inner cylinder surface, a second outer cylinder surface surrounding the second inner cylinder surface, and an inner ring extending from the bottom end of the second sleeve toward a direction close to the axis and tapering toward the top end; the second permeable membrane is fixed to the second sleeve and cooperates with the inner ring to define a second sorting chamber open at the top end, the second permeable membrane having a plurality of second micropores for the passage of the motile sperm;

[0040] The second permeable membrane, in conjunction with the inner wall of the bottom wall and the surrounding wall, defines a second specimen chamber for accommodating the semen specimen.

[0041] The present invention relates to a sperm sorting device, which is suitable for sorting multiple motile sperm from a semen sample. The sperm sorting device includes a base and a sorting unit.

[0042] The base includes a bottom wall and a surrounding wall extending from the periphery of the bottom wall toward the top and around an axis, the bottom wall and the surrounding wall cooperating to define an accommodating space with an opening, the surrounding wall having an inner wall surface and a top surface;

[0043] The sorting unit includes a third sorter for positioning on the base, the third sorter having a third assembly and a third permeable membrane; the third assembly having a third sleeve surrounding the axis and for insertion into the receiving space, the third sleeve having a third inner cylinder surface, a third outer cylinder surface surrounding the third inner cylinder surface, and a suction ring extending from the bottom end of the third sleeve toward a direction close to the axis; the third permeable membrane is fixed to the third sleeve and cooperates with the suction ring and the third inner cylinder surface to define a third sorting chamber with an open top, the third permeable membrane having a plurality of third micropores for the passage of the motile sperm;

[0044] The third permeable membrane, in conjunction with the inner wall of the bottom wall and the surrounding wall, defines a third specimen chamber for accommodating the semen specimen.

[0045] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a third sleeve of the third component of the third sorter having a liquid extractor limiting groove disposed on the aspiration ring and open at the top.

[0046] In the sperm sorting device of the present invention, the width of the liquid collection device limiting groove is between 4μm and 5mm.

[0047] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a third sleeve having a third bottom surface connecting the third inner cylinder surface and the third outer cylinder surface, and a suction ring having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a central hole connecting the top surface and the bottom surface. The bottom surface of the suction ring extends from the bottom surface of the third sleeve toward the direction close to the axis while gradually approaching the top surface.

[0048] The sperm sorting device of the present invention has a third permeable membrane having a fixing portion that surrounds the axis and is fixed to the bottom surface of the third sleeve, and a permeable portion that extends from the fixing portion toward the axis and protrudes toward the top.

[0049] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes a third sleeve of the third component of the third sorter having a liquid collector limiting groove disposed on the aspiration ring and open at the top. The liquid collector limiting groove extends from the top surface of the aspiration ring toward the bottom surface of the ring. The liquid collector limiting groove has a bottom and a connecting portion that connects the bottom of the groove with the third permeable membrane.

[0050] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes an extraction ring having at least one vent hole connecting the top surface of the ring and the bottom surface of the ring.

[0051] The sperm sorting device of the present invention further includes an indicator line on the third inner cylinder surface of the third sleeve corresponding to the liquid extractor limiting groove.

[0052] The beneficial effect of the sperm sorting device of the present invention is that, by allowing the gas originally located in the first sample chamber to be squeezed out of the first sample chamber, the highly motile sperm in the semen sample can naturally flow upward through the first permeable membrane, thereby improving the quality of sperm sorting.

[0053] The second objective of this invention is to provide a sperm sorting method that can improve sperm sorting quality.

[0054] The sperm sorting method of the present invention includes the following steps:

[0055] (A) Prepare the sperm sorting device as described above;

[0056] (B) Provide semen samples;

[0057] (C) The semen sample is dripped into the receiving space from the opening of the base;

[0058] (D) The first sleeve of the first sorter is placed into the accommodating space and positioned, the first permeable membrane is located above the semen sample, the semen sample is contained in the first sample chamber, and the air in the first sample chamber is squeezed out of the first sample chamber.

[0059] (E) Drop the first sorting solution onto the first permeable membrane;

[0060] (F) Allow to stand for 3 to 60 minutes. During this period, multiple highly motile sperm in the semen sample will swim upwards, pass through the first micropore of the first permeable membrane, enter the first sorting chamber, and mix with the first sorting solution; and

[0061] (G) Remove the first sorting solution and the highly motile sperm from the first permeable membrane.

[0062] Another sperm sorting method according to the present invention includes the following steps:

[0063] (a) Prepare the sperm sorting device as described above;

[0064] (b) Provide a semen sample;

[0065] (c) The semen sample is dripped into the receiving space through the opening of the base;

[0066] (d) The first sleeve of the first sorter is placed into the accommodating space and positioned, the first permeable membrane is located above the semen sample, the semen sample is contained in the first sample chamber, and the air in the first sample chamber is squeezed out of the first sample chamber.

[0067] (e) Drop the first sorting solution onto the first permeable membrane;

[0068] (f) The second sleeve of the second sorter is placed into the first sorting chamber and positioned, with the second permeable membrane located above the first permeable membrane;

[0069] (g) Drop the second sorting solution onto the second permeable membrane;

[0070] (h) Allow to stand for 3 to 60 minutes. During this standing period, multiple highly motile sperm in the semen sample will swim upwards through the first micropore of the first permeable membrane and enter the first sorting chamber, mixing with the first sorting solution. Conversely, multiple highly motile sperm on the first permeable membrane will swim upwards through the second micropore of the second permeable membrane and enter the second sorting chamber, mixing with the second sorting solution.

[0071] (i) Remove the second sorting solution and the more motile sperm from the second permeable membrane.

[0072] The beneficial effect of the sperm sorting method of the present invention is that, by allowing the gas originally located in the first specimen chamber to be squeezed out of the first specimen chamber, the highly motile sperm in the semen specimen can naturally float upward through the first permeable membrane, thereby improving the sperm sorting quality. Attached Figure Description

[0073] Figure 1 This is a combined cross-sectional schematic diagram of US Patent No. 10,422,737B2;

[0074] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional composite diagram of the first embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention;

[0075] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the first embodiment, illustrating that the first embodiment includes a base and a sorting unit, the sorting unit including a first sorter;

[0076] Figure 4 This is a combined sectional view of the first embodiment;

[0077] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the use of the first embodiment;

[0078] Figure 6 It is similar Figure 4 The view illustrates that an annular groove is provided on the base and a first annular groove is provided on the first sorter;

[0079] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional composite diagram of a second embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention;

[0080] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of the second embodiment, illustrating that the second embodiment includes the base, a sorting unit and a top cover, the sorting unit including two first sorters;

[0081] Figure 9 This is a combined cross-sectional view of the second embodiment;

[0082] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the second embodiment, illustrating that the top cover is inverted for placement of one of the first sorters;

[0083] Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view of a third embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention, illustrating that the third embodiment includes the base, a sorting unit and the top cover, and the sorting unit includes a first sorter and a second sorter;

[0084] Figure 12 This is a combined sectional view of the third embodiment;

[0085] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the use of the third embodiment;

[0086] Figure 14 This is a three-dimensional composite diagram of the fourth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention;

[0087] Figure 15 This is an exploded perspective view of the fourth embodiment, illustrating that the fourth embodiment includes the base and a sorting unit, the sorting unit including a second sorter;

[0088] Figure 16 This is a combined sectional view of the fourth embodiment;

[0089] Figure 17 This is an exploded perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention, illustrating that the fifth embodiment includes the base, a sorting unit and the top cover, and the sorting unit includes two second sorters;

[0090] Figure 18 This is a combined sectional view of the fifth embodiment;

[0091] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the fifth embodiment, illustrating that the top cover is inverted for placement of one of the second sorters;

[0092] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention, illustrating that the sixth embodiment includes the base, the sorting unit and a height adjustment unit, the sorting unit includes a first sorter, and the first component is rotated 0 degrees relative to the base;

[0093] Figure 21 This is an exploded perspective view of the sixth embodiment;

[0094] Figure 22 It is taken from Figure 20 A sectional view;

[0095] Figure 23 It is similar Figure 20 The view illustrates the state of the first component rotated 60 degrees relative to the base;

[0096] Figure 24 It is taken from Figure 23 A sectional view;

[0097] Figure 25 It is similar Figure 20 The view illustrates the state of the first component rotated 120 degrees relative to the base;

[0098] Figure 26 It is taken from Figure 25A sectional view;

[0099] Figure 27 This is an exploded perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention, illustrating that the seventh embodiment includes the base, the sorting unit and a height adjustment unit, the sorting unit including a first sorter;

[0100] Figure 28 This is a combined sectional view of the seventh embodiment;

[0101] Figure 29 This is an exploded perspective view of the eighth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention, illustrating that the eighth embodiment includes the base, the sorting unit and a height adjustment unit, the sorting unit including two first sorters;

[0102] Figure 30 This is a combined sectional view of the eighth embodiment;

[0103] Figure 31 This is a combined cross-sectional view of the ninth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention;

[0104] Figure 32 This is a combined cross-sectional view of the tenth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention;

[0105] Figure 33 This is a combined cross-sectional view of the eleventh embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention:

[0106] Figure 34 It is a statistical chart showing the results of comparing the total motility and forward motility of the motile sperm obtained by this invention with those obtained from semen sample concentrate and the sperm obtained from the forecourt device.

[0107] Figure 35 This is a partially exploded three-dimensional representation of the twelfth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention;

[0108] Figure 36 This is an exploded perspective view of the twelfth embodiment, illustrating that the twelfth embodiment includes a base, the sorting unit, and a snap-fit ​​unit;

[0109] Figure 37 This is an exploded perspective view of the twelfth embodiment from another angle;

[0110] Figure 38 This is a combined cross-sectional view and usage diagram of the twelfth embodiment;

[0111] Figure 39 This is a partial exploded perspective view of the thirteenth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention;

[0112] Figure 40This is an exploded perspective view of the thirteenth embodiment, illustrating that the thirteenth embodiment includes the base, the sorting unit, the snap-fit ​​unit, and a liquid dispenser auxiliary frame;

[0113] Figure 41 This is a combined cross-sectional view and usage diagram of the thirteenth embodiment;

[0114] Figure 42 This is a partial exploded perspective view of the fourteenth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention;

[0115] Figure 43 This is an exploded perspective view of the fourteenth embodiment, illustrating that the fourteenth embodiment includes the base and a sorting unit, the sorting unit including a third sorter;

[0116] Figure 44 This is a combined cross-sectional view and usage diagram of the fourteenth embodiment;

[0117] Figure 45 This is a partial exploded perspective view of the fifteenth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention;

[0118] Figure 46 This is an exploded perspective view of the fifteenth embodiment, illustrating that the fifteenth embodiment includes the base and the sorting unit;

[0119] Figure 47 This is a combined cross-sectional view and usage diagram of the fifteenth embodiment;

[0120] Figure 48 This is a partial exploded perspective view of the sixteenth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention;

[0121] Figure 49 This is an exploded perspective view of the sixteenth embodiment, illustrating that the sixteenth embodiment includes the base and the sorting unit;

[0122] Figure 50 This is a combined cross-sectional view and usage diagram of the sixteenth embodiment;

[0123] Figure 51 This is a partial exploded perspective view of the seventeenth embodiment of the sperm sorting device of the present invention;

[0124] Figure 52 This is an exploded perspective view of the seventeenth embodiment, illustrating that the seventeenth embodiment includes the base and a sorting unit, the sorting unit including a fourth sorter and a fifth sorter;

[0125] Figure 53 This is a combined cross-sectional view and usage diagram of the seventeenth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0126] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0127] Before the invention is described in detail, it should be noted that the relative terms used in the following description, such as "top" and "bottom," are based on the orientation shown in the figures and the normal operating orientation, and similar elements are represented by the same number. In addition, although "cylinder" and "ring" are shown as circles in the figures in the following description, this should not be construed as limiting "cylinder" and "ring" to being circular.

[0128] See Figures 2 to 5 The sperm sorting device 21 of the first embodiment of the present invention is suitable for sorting multiple motile sperm 110 from a semen sample 100, and includes a base 3 and a sorting unit 4.

[0129] The base 3 includes a bottom wall 31 and a surrounding wall 32 extending from the periphery of the bottom wall 31 toward the top and surrounding an axis I. The bottom wall 31 and the surrounding wall 32 cooperate to define an accommodating space 33 with an opening 331. The surrounding wall 32 has an inner wall surface 321 and a top surface 322, and the top surface 322 forms an overflow groove 323. In this embodiment, the inner wall surface 321 is an annular inclined surface that extends from the bottom wall 31 along the axis I toward the top surface 322 and gradually increases in diameter. The accommodating space 33 is a truncated cone-shaped space that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.

[0130] It is worth noting that the surrounding wall 32 also has an outer wall surface 324 surrounding the inner wall surface 321, and the base 3 also includes an indicator scale 34 disposed on the outer wall surface 324.

[0131] The sorting unit 4 includes a first sorter 40, which has a first kit 41 and a first permeable membrane 44.

[0132] The first assembly 41 has a first sleeve 42 surrounding the axis I and for insertion into the receiving space 33, and a first protruding ring 43 extending from the top of the first sleeve 42 toward a direction away from the axis I and located on the top surface 322 of the surrounding wall 32.

[0133] The first sleeve 42 has a first inner cylinder surface 421, a first outer cylinder surface 422 surrounding the first inner cylinder surface 421, and a first cylinder bottom surface 423 connecting the first inner cylinder surface 421 and the first outer cylinder surface 422. In this embodiment, the first sleeve 42 extends from the bottom end along the axis I toward the top end and gradually increases in diameter, forming a truncated conical sleeve that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.

[0134] The first convex ring 43 has a top surface 431, a bottom surface 432, and a circumferential surface 433 connecting the top surface 431 and the bottom surface 432. The bottom surface 432 forms a first venting groove 434 extending from the first outer cylinder surface 422 to the circumferential surface 433.

[0135] The first permeable membrane 44 is fixed to the bottom surface 423 of the first sleeve 42 and cooperates with the inner surface 421 to define a first sorting chamber 45 with an open top. The first permeable membrane 44 has a plurality of first micropores 441 for the passage of the motile sperm 110. The material of the first permeable membrane 44 can be polycarbonate, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, polymethyl methacrylate, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, nylon, cellulose acetate, or other composite materials or engineering plastics, and the area of ​​the first permeable membrane 44 is less than 180 cm². 2 The pore size of each first micropore 441 is between 2 μm and 50 μm, and the porosity of the first micropore 441 relative to the first permeable membrane 44 is 5% to 90%. In this embodiment, the range used is between 8 μm and 20 μm in pore size and between 5% and 20% in porosity.

[0136] It is worth noting that the first permeable membrane 44 can be fixed to the first cylinder bottom surface 423 of the first sleeve 42, or to the first inner cylinder surface 421 of the first sleeve 42, or to the reduced-diameter inner ring extending from the bottom end of the first sleeve 42 toward the axis I by means of ultrasonic welding, general hot melting, infrared welding or UV adhesive, and does not need to be fixed to the first cylinder bottom surface 423.

[0137] In addition, the first permeable membrane 44 also has a fixing part 442 fixed to the first sleeve 42 around the axis I, and a permeable part 443 extending non-flatly from the fixing part 442 toward the axis I. The permeable part 443 can be convex, concave, or wavy, thereby increasing the permeable area.

[0138] When the first sleeve 42 of the first kit 41 is placed into the receiving space 33, the first permeable membrane 44 cooperates with the bottom wall 31 and the inner wall surface 321 of the surrounding wall 32 to define a first specimen chamber 211 for containing the semen specimen 100. The inner wall surface 321 of the surrounding wall 32 cooperates with the first outer cylinder surface 422 of the first sleeve 42 to define a first permeable gap 212 connecting the first specimen chamber 211 and the first air escape groove 434.

[0139] The volume of the first specimen chamber 211 is between 12 μL and 400 ml; the distance between the first permeable membrane 44 and the bottom wall 31 is between 50 μm and 8.5 cm; the first permeable pore 212 is less than 3 mm; and the bottom surface area of ​​the first permeable pore 212 parallel to the bottom wall 31 is 0.25 mm. 2 Up to 600mm 2 .

[0140] In addition, the first sorter 40 also has a liquid dispenser socket 46 disposed on the first inner cylinder surface 421 of the first kit 41 and located in the first sorting chamber 45. The liquid dispenser socket 46 has an insertion hole 461 for a liquid dispenser (not shown, such as a syringe) to be inserted and positioned. The diameter of the insertion hole is between 4 μm and 5 mm.

[0141] The sperm sorting method corresponding to the sperm sorting device 21 of the present invention includes the following steps:

[0142] Step 1: Prepare the sperm sorting device 21.

[0143] Step 2: Provide approximately 0.5cc to 50cc of the semen sample.

[0144] Step 3: Drop the semen sample 100 into the receiving space 33 through the opening 331 of the base 3.

[0145] Step 4: The first sleeve 42 of the first sorter 40 is placed into the accommodating space 33 and positioned. The first permeable membrane 44 is located above the semen sample 100. The semen sample 100 is contained in the first sample chamber 211, and the air in the first sample chamber 211 is squeezed out of the first sample chamber 211 or squeezed into the first permeable gap 212. The semen sample 100 occupies at least 80% of the volume of the first sample chamber 211, so that the motile sperm 110 can pass smoothly through the first permeable membrane 44.

[0146] Step 5: Drop approximately 5cc to 50cc of the first sorting solution 120 onto the first permeable membrane 44. The first sorting solution 120 will partially permeate into the first specimen chamber 211 to form a continuous liquid surface. The first sorting solution 120 is any diluent suitable for sperm treatment.

[0147] Step Six: Let stand for 3 to 60 minutes. During the standing process, the motile sperm 110 with strong motility in the semen sample 100 will swim upwards a maximum distance of about 15 mm, pass through the first micropore 441 of the first permeable membrane 44, enter the first sorting chamber 45, and mix with the first sorting solution 120.

[0148] Step 7: Remove the first sorting solution 120 and the highly motile sperm 110 from the first permeable membrane 44.

[0149] Through the above steps, highly motile sperm 110 can be obtained. Since the present invention involves placing the semen sample 100 into the receiving space 33, and during the process of placing the first sleeve 42 of the first kit 41 into the receiving space 33, the gas originally located in the first sample chamber 211 can be squeezed out of the first sample chamber 211 or squeezed into the first permeable gap 212. When the gas exceeds the volume of the first permeable gap 212, it can be further discharged to the outside through the first venting groove 434. In this way, the air pressure of the first sample chamber 211 will not be affected, allowing the highly motile sperm 110 in the semen sample 100 to naturally detach and move upward through the first permeable membrane 44 and enter the first sorting chamber 45. Therefore, the sperm 110 obtained from the first permeable membrane 44 by the present invention are all highly motile sperm, which can achieve the effect of improving sperm sorting quality.

[0150] The following points are worth noting:

[0151] (i) When the operator drops the semen sample 100 into the receiving space 33, the operator can confirm the amount of semen sample 100 dropped through the indicator scale 34. If the operator accidentally drops too much semen sample 100, causing the volume of the semen sample 100 to exceed the volume of the first sample chamber 211, the semen sample 100 can enter the overflow groove 323 of the base 3 through the first permeable gap 212, thereby avoiding the surrounding environment from being contaminated.

[0152] (ii) Hyaluronic acid coating or progesterone coating can be applied to the first inner cylinder surface 421 of the first sleeve 42, or an infrared bulb structure or power coil structure can be added, or a biomimetic structure can be added to the inner wall surface 321 of the surrounding wall 32, thereby improving the sorting efficiency.

[0153] (iii) When the total free distance of the motile sperm 110 is less than 15 mm, a better recovery rate of the motile sperm 110 can be obtained when the volume ratio of the first specimen chamber 211 to the first sorting chamber 45 is less than or equal to 1:1.

[0154] (iv) The liquid dispenser (not shown) is inserted and fixed through the liquid dispenser socket 46, so that the operator can operate the liquid dispenser stably to improve efficiency.

[0155] After step six above, the operator can remove the first sorter 40 from the base 3 and place it directly on the microscope stage (not shown) to analyze the motile sperm 110.

[0156] See Figure 6 The base 3 also includes an annular groove 35 disposed on the inner wall surface 321 of the surrounding wall 32, and the first sorter 40 also has a first annular groove 47 disposed on the first inner cylinder surface 421 of the first sleeve 42. The annular groove 35 and the first annular groove 47 have the function of preventing severe capillary phenomena and blocking the spread of capillary phenomena, and the cross-sectional shape and the setting height of the annular groove 35 and the first annular groove 47 are ( Figure 6 Only the setting height of the annular groove 35 is displayed (A) without limitation.

[0157] See Figures 7 to 10 The sperm sorting device 22 of the second embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3, a sorting unit 4' and a top cover 60.

[0158] The sorting unit 4' includes two first sorters 40, one of which is placed on the base 3, and the two together form the same structure as the sperm sorting device 21 (see Figure 4 The first sleeve 42 of another first sorter 40 is inserted into the first sleeve 42 of one of the first sorters 40, and the first convex ring 43 of the other first sorter 40 is located on the first convex ring 43 of one of the first sorters 40, so that the two first sorters 40 are stacked along the axis I.

[0159] The top cover 60 includes a top wall 61 and a top surrounding wall 62 extending from the periphery of the top wall 61 toward the bottom end and surrounding the axis I and located on the first protruding ring 43 of the first sorter 40. The top wall 61 and the top surrounding wall 62 cooperate to define a top receiving space 63 with the bottom end open.

[0160] Regarding the use of the sperm sorting device 22, the operator can use the combination structure of the base 3 and one first sorter 40 to perform a single-layer sperm sorting operation, or the combination structure of the base 3 and two first sorters 40 to perform a two-layer sperm sorting operation. In this way, more motile sperm can be obtained on the first permeable membrane 44 of the other first sorter 40. The method of two-layer sperm sorting will be described in detail in the following third embodiment.

[0161] Regarding the top cover 60, the top cover surrounding the wall 62 can be placed on the first protruding ring 43 of the first sorter 40 to seal the first sorting chamber 45. Alternatively, the top cover 60 can be inverted so that the top accommodating space 63 is open towards the top, and the first sleeve 42 of the first sorter 40 can be placed into the top accommodating space 63, so that the top cover 60 also functions as a platform.

[0162] See Figures 11 to 13 The sperm sorting device 23 of the third embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3, a sorting unit 4” and the top cover 60.

[0163] The sorting unit 4” includes a first sorter 40 and a second sorter 50.

[0164] The second sorter 50 has a second kit 51 and a second permeable membrane 55.

[0165] The second assembly 51 has a second sleeve 52 surrounding the axis I and inserted into the first sleeve 42, a second convex ring 53 extending from the top of the second sleeve 52 toward a direction away from the axis I and located on the first convex ring 43, and an inner ring 54 extending from the bottom of the second sleeve 52 toward a direction close to the axis I and tapering toward the top.

[0166] The second sleeve 52 has a second inner cylinder surface 521, a second outer cylinder surface 522 surrounding the second inner cylinder surface 521, and a second cylinder bottom surface 523 connecting the second inner cylinder surface 521 and the second outer cylinder surface 522. In this embodiment, the second sleeve 52 extends from the bottom end along the axis I toward the top end and gradually increases in diameter, forming a truncated tapered sleeve that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.

[0167] The second convex ring 53 has a top surface 531, a bottom surface 532, and a circumferential surface 533 connecting the top surface 531 and the bottom surface 532. The bottom surface 532 forms a second venting groove 534 extending from the second outer cylinder surface 522 to the circumferential surface 533.

[0168] The inner ring 54 is a truncated conical ring that is narrow at the top and wide at the bottom.

[0169] The second permeable membrane 55 is fixed to the bottom surface 523 of the second sleeve 52 and, together with the inner ring 54 and the second inner cylinder surface 521, defines a second sorting chamber 56 with an open top. The second permeable membrane 55 has multiple second micropores 551 for multiple motile sperm 111 to pass through. The material of the second permeable membrane 55 may be the same as or different from that of the first permeable membrane 44. The pore size of each second micropore 551 is between 2μm and 50μm. The porosity of the second micropore 551 relative to the second permeable membrane 55 is 5% to 90%. In this embodiment, the pore size is between 8μm and 12μm and the porosity is between 5% and 20%. It is understood that the area, material, pore size and porosity of the second permeable membrane 55 are not necessarily the same as those of the first permeable membrane 44.

[0170] The second permeable membrane 55 is combined with the inner ring 54, which is a truncated conical ring with a narrow top and a wide bottom, to form the second sorting chamber 56. This allows the volume of the second sorting chamber 56 to be smaller than that of the first sorting chamber 45, thereby reducing the amount of sorting liquid used and lowering the cost of use.

[0171] Regarding the top cover 60, the top cover surrounding the wall 62 can be placed on the second protruding ring 53 of the second sorter 50 to seal the second sorting chamber 56. Alternatively, the top cover 60 can be inverted so that the top accommodating space 63 is open towards the top, and the first sleeve 42 of the first sorter 40 can be placed into the top accommodating space 63. Or, the second sleeve 52 of the second sorter 50 can be placed into the top accommodating space 63, so that the top cover 60 also functions as a platform.

[0172] When the first sleeve 42 of the first sorter 40 is placed into the receiving space 33, the first permeable membrane 44 cooperates with the bottom wall 31 and the inner wall surface 321 of the surrounding wall 32 to define the first specimen chamber 211 for containing the semen specimen 100. The inner wall surface 321 of the surrounding wall 32 cooperates with the first outer cylinder surface 422 of the first sleeve 42 to define the first permeable gap 2 connecting the first specimen chamber 211 and the first air escape groove 434. 12. The first permeable gap 212 is 0.05 mm to 2 mm. When the second sleeve 52 of the second sorter 50 is placed into the first sorting chamber 45 of the first sorter 40, the first inner cylinder surface 421 of the first sleeve 42 and the second outer cylinder surface 522 of the second sleeve 52 cooperate to define a second permeable gap 232 connecting the first sorting chamber 45 and the second air escape groove 534. The second permeable gap 232 is 0.05 mm to 2 mm.

[0173] The sperm sorting method corresponding to the sperm sorting device 23 of the present invention includes the following steps:

[0174] Step 1: Prepare the sperm sorting device 23.

[0175] Step 2: Provide approximately 0.5cc to 50cc of the semen sample.

[0176] Step 3: Drop the semen sample 100 into the receiving space 33 through the opening 331 of the base 30.

[0177] Step 4: The first sleeve 42 of the first sorter 40 is placed into the accommodating space 33 and positioned. The first permeable membrane 44 is located above the semen sample 100. The semen sample 100 is contained in the first sample chamber 211, and the air in the first sample chamber 211 is squeezed out of the first sample chamber 211 or squeezed into the first permeable gap 212. The semen sample 100 occupies at least 80% of the volume of the first sample chamber 211, so that the motile sperm 110 can pass smoothly through the first permeable membrane 44.

[0178] Step 5: Drop approximately 5cc to 100cc of the first sorting solution 120 onto the first permeable membrane 44. The first sorting solution 120 will partially permeate into the first specimen chamber 211 to form a continuous liquid surface. The first sorting solution 120 is any diluent suitable for sperm treatment.

[0179] Step 6: Place the second sleeve 52 of the second sorter 50 into the first sorting chamber 45, and position the second convex ring 53 on the first convex ring 43, with the second permeable membrane 55 positioned above the first permeable membrane 44.

[0180] Step 7: Drop approximately 10cc of a second sorting solution 121 onto the second permeable membrane 55. The second sorting solution 121 is any diluent suitable for sperm treatment.

[0181] Step 8: Let stand for 3 to 60 minutes. During the standing process, the motile sperm 110 with strong motility in the semen sample 100 will swim upwards a maximum distance of 15 mm, pass through the first micropore 441 of the first permeable membrane 44, enter the first sorting chamber 45, and mix with the first sorting solution 120. Meanwhile, multiple motile sperm 111 with even stronger motility on the first permeable membrane 44 will swim upwards, pass through the second micropore 551 of the second permeable membrane 55, enter the second sorting chamber 56, and mix with the second sorting solution 121.

[0182] Step 9: Remove the second sorting solution 121 and the more active sperm 111 from the second permeable membrane 55.

[0183] By following the above steps, more active sperm 111 can be obtained, thus enabling the present invention to improve sperm sorting quality.

[0184] It is worth noting that the sperm sorting device 23 can also be configured to first place the second sleeve 52 of the second sorter 50 into the receiving space 33 of the base 3, and then place the first sleeve 42 of the first sorter 40 into the second sleeve 52 of the second sorter 50, which also has the effect of obtaining more motile sperm 111.

[0185] Furthermore, the first sorting liquid 120 and the second sorting liquid 121 may be different sorting liquids.

[0186] See Figures 14 to 16 The sperm sorting device 24 of the fourth embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3 and a sorting unit 7.

[0187] The sorting unit 7 includes the second sorter 50.

[0188] When the second sleeve 52 of the second sorter 50 is placed into the receiving space 33, the second permeable membrane 55 cooperates with the bottom wall 31 and the inner wall surface 321 of the surrounding wall 32 to define a second specimen chamber 241 for containing the semen specimen 100. The inner wall surface 321 of the surrounding wall 32 cooperates with the outer cylinder surface 522 of the second sleeve 52 to define a third permeable gap 242 connecting the second specimen chamber 241 and the second air escape groove 534. The third permeable gap 242 is 0.05 mm to 2 mm.

[0189] The sperm sorting device 24 and the sperm sorting device 21 (see Figure 4 It has the same effect, the difference being that the volume of the second sorting chamber 56 of the sperm sorting device 24 is smaller than the volume of the first sorting chamber 45 of the sperm sorting device 21, which has the effect of reducing the amount of sorting liquid used to reduce the cost of use.

[0190] See Figures 17 to 19 The sperm sorting device 25 of the fifth embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3, a sorting unit 7' and the top cover 60.

[0191] The sorting unit 7' includes two second sorters 50 stacked along the axis I.

[0192] The top cover 60 can be placed on the second sorter 50, or it can be inverted so that the second sleeve 52 of the second sorter 50 is placed into the top receiving space 63, so that the top cover 60 also functions as a platform.

[0193] The sperm sorting device 25 and the sperm sorting device 22 (see Figure 9 The sperm sorting device 23 (see) Figure 13 It has the same effect.

[0194] See Figures 20 to 22The sperm sorting device 26 of the sixth embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3, the sorting unit 4 and a height adjustment unit 8.

[0195] The height adjustment unit 8 is disposed between the top surface 322 of the surrounding wall 32 of the base 3 and the bottom surface 432 of the first protruding ring 43 of the first component 41, and includes two first steps 81 disposed on the top surface 322 and radially opposite to each other, two second steps 82 respectively connected to the first steps 81 and with a height lower than the first steps 81 along the axis I and radially opposite to each other, two third steps 83 connected to the first steps 81 and the second steps 82 and with a height lower than the second steps 82 along the axis I and radially opposite to each other, two first seats 84 corresponding to the first steps 81, the second steps 82, and the third steps 83 disposed on the bottom surface 432 and radially opposite to each other, two second seats 85 respectively connected to the first seats 84 and radially opposite to each other, and two third seats 86 connected to the first seats 84 and the second seats 85 and radially opposite to each other. The first step 81, the second step 82, and the third step 83 are each distributed at a 60-degree angle, and the first seat 84, the second seat 85, and the third seat 86 are each distributed at a 60-degree angle. The top surface 322 and the bottom surface 432 of the ring are both stepped surfaces.

[0196] When the first seat 84 is placed on the third step 83, the second seat 85 is placed on the second step 82, and the third seat 86 is placed on the first step 81, and the first assembly 41 is rotated 0 degrees relative to the base 3, the sperm sorting device 26 has a first height along the axis I, the first permeable gap 212 has a first air capacity, and the first specimen chamber 211 has a first volume.

[0197] See Figure 23 , Figure 24 When the first assembly 41 is rotated 60 degrees relative to the base 3, the first seat 84 is placed on the second step 82, the second seat 85 is located on the first step 81, and the third seat 86 is located on the third step 83. The sperm sorting device 26 has a second height along the axis I, the first permeable gap 212 becomes larger and has a second air capacity, the first specimen chamber 211 has a second volume, and the second height is greater than the first height, the second volume is greater than the first volume, and the second air capacity is greater than the first air capacity.

[0198] See Figure 25 , Figure 26When the first assembly 41 is rotated 120 degrees relative to the base 3, the first seat 84 sits on the first step 81, the second seat 85 is located on the third step 83, and the third seat 86 is located on the second step 82. The sperm sorting device 26 has a third height along the axis I, the first permeable gap 212 becomes larger and has a third air volume, the first specimen chamber 211 has a third volume, and the third height is greater than the second height, the third volume is greater than the second volume, and the third air volume is greater than the second air volume.

[0199] It is worth noting that the height adjustment unit 8 is not limited to the number of two first steps 81, two second steps 82, two third steps 83, two first seats 84, two second seats 85, and two third seats 86. Other numbers of steps and seats can also be provided. Furthermore, the arrangement of the steps and seats is not limited to 60 degrees and radially opposite each other.

[0200] See Figure 27 , Figure 28 The sperm sorting device 27 of the seventh embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3, the sorting unit 4 and a height adjustment unit 9.

[0201] The height adjustment unit 9 is disposed between the inner wall surface 321 of the surrounding wall 32 of the base 3 and the first outer cylinder surface 422 of the first sleeve 42 of the first kit 41, and includes a first internal thread section 91 located on the inner wall surface 321 and close to the top surface 323, and an external thread section 92 located on the first outer cylinder surface 422 and close to the first convex ring 43.

[0202] By screwing the external threaded section 92 and the first internal threaded section 91 together, the first sorter 40 can be moved closer to or further away from the base 3, thereby adjusting the size of the first through-hole 212 and the volume of the first specimen chamber 211.

[0203] See Figure 29 , Figure 30 The sperm sorting device 28 of the eighth embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3, the sorting unit 4' and a height adjustment unit 9'.

[0204] The height adjustment unit 9' includes a first internal thread section 91 located on the inner wall surface 321 and near the top surface 323, an external thread section 92 located on the first outer cylinder surface 422 and near the first convex ring 43, and a second internal thread section 93 located on the first inner cylinder surface 421 of the first sleeve 42 of the first assembly 41 and near the first convex ring 43.

[0205] By screwing the external threaded section 92 and the first internal threaded section 91 together, one of the first sorters 40 can be moved closer to or further away from the base 3, thereby adjusting the size of the first through-hole 212 and the volume of the first specimen chamber 211. By screwing the external threaded section 92 of the other first sorter 40 and the second internal threaded section 93 of the first sorter 40 together, the other first sorter 40 can be moved closer to or further away from the first sorter 40, thereby adjusting the volume of the first sorting chamber 45 of the first sorter 40.

[0206] See Figure 31 The sperm sorting device 29 of the ninth embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3, the sorting unit 4 and a pad 95.

[0207] The gasket 95 is installed between the top surface 322 of the base 3 and the bottom surface 432 of the first protruding ring 43 of the first sorter 40. The gasket 95 can move the first sorter 40 away from the base 3, thereby increasing the gap of the first transparent gap 212 and increasing the volume of the first specimen chamber 211.

[0208] See Figure 32 and Figure 4 The sperm sorting device 21' of the tenth embodiment of the present invention also includes the base 3 and the sorting unit 4, just like the sperm sorting device 21. The difference between the two is that the sperm sorting device 21 positions the first sorter 40 by the first protruding ring 43 being located on the top surface 322 of the surrounding wall 32. The first component 41 of the sperm sorting device 21' omits the first protruding ring 43. The first sorter 40 is positioned by placing the first sleeve 42 into the accommodating space 33, which is a truncated conical space with a wide top and a narrow bottom, and the first sleeve 42, which is a truncated conical sleeve with a wide top and a narrow bottom.

[0209] See Figure 33 and Figure 16 The sperm sorting device 24' of the eleventh embodiment of the present invention also includes the base 3 and the sorting unit 7, just like the sperm sorting device 24. The difference between the two is that the sperm sorting device 24 positions the second sorter 50 by the second protruding ring 53 being positioned on the top surface 322 of the surrounding wall 32. The second component 51 of the sperm sorting device 24' omits the second protruding ring 53. The second sorter 50 is positioned by placing the second sleeve 52 into the accommodating space 33, which is a truncated conical space with a wide top and a narrow bottom, and the second sleeve 52, which is a truncated conical sleeve with a wide top and a narrow bottom.

[0210] See Figure 34The total motility and forward motility of the motile sperm 110 obtained by the present invention were compared with those of sperm obtained from semen sample undiluted and sperm obtained from the previous device. The experimental results show that the motile sperm 110 obtained by the present invention has significantly better total motility and forward motility. Figure 34 In the statistical chart, the percentage of motile sperm (%) = number of motile sperm / total sperm count, and the percentage of forward-moving motile sperm (%) = number of forward-moving motile sperm / total sperm count. A t-test was used, where p < 0.05 was considered significant. The symbol * indicates p < 0.05, *** indicates p < 0.001, and **** indicates p < 0.0001.

[0211] See Figures 35 to 38 The sperm sorting device 201 of the twelfth embodiment of the present invention includes a base 3', the sorting unit 4 and a snap-fit ​​unit 130.

[0212] The base 3' includes a bottom wall 31', a surrounding wall 32' extending from the periphery of the bottom wall 31 toward the top and surrounding an axis I, and a central protrusion 36 extending from the center of the bottom wall 31' along the axis I toward the top and gradually decreasing in diameter. The bottom wall 31' and the surrounding wall 32' cooperate to define an accommodating space 33' with an opening 331'. The surrounding wall 32' has an inner wall surface 321' and a top surface 322'. The central protrusion 36 is a truncated cone block that is narrow at the top and wide at the bottom, and has a truncated cone surface 361 and a plurality of spacer ribs 362 equidistantly arranged on the truncated cone surface 361.

[0213] The sorting unit 4 also includes the first sorter 40, which also has the first kit 41 and the first permeable membrane 44.

[0214] The latching unit 130 is disposed between the first protruding ring 43 of the first assembly 41 and the top surface 322' of the surrounding wall 32', and includes two latching blocks 131 disposed on the top surface 322', and two corresponding latching slots 132 disposed on the first protruding ring 43. The latching unit 130 prevents the first sorter 40 from rotating relative to the base 3', thereby improving the positioning effect and operational convenience of the first sorter 40. It is worth noting that the latching slots 132 can also be disposed on the top surface 322', and the latching blocks 131 on the first protruding ring 43, achieving the same functional effect.

[0215] The sperm sorting device 201, by setting the central protrusion 36 and the spacer ribs 362 on the bottom wall 31' of the base 3', can drop the semen sample 100 onto the truncated conical surface 361 between every two spacer ribs 362, so that the semen sample 100 is evenly coated on the truncated conical surface 361, thereby improving the uniformity of the semen sample 100 in the accommodating space 33'. When the dropping operation is completed and the first sorter 40 is positioned on the base 3', the truncated conical surface 361 can concentrate the air bubbles that were originally located on the surface of the semen sample 100 to the top of the central protrusion 36, so that they can be more easily discharged through the first permeable membrane 44. Furthermore, when the first sorting liquid 120 and the motile sperm 110 are being aspirated, the spacer rib 362 of the central protrusion 36 can prevent the semen sample 100 from flowing smoothly, thus preventing impurities in the semen sample 100 from being aspirated through the first permeable membrane 44. It can also block impurities at the junction of the truncated conical surface 361 and the spacer rib 362, thus preventing impurities from being aspirated through the first permeable membrane 44, thereby improving the sorting quality.

[0216] See Figures 39 to 41 The sperm sorting device 202 of the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3', the sorting unit 4, the snap-fit ​​unit 130 and a liquid collector auxiliary frame 140.

[0217] The sperm sorting device 202 and the sperm sorting device 201 (see...) Figures 35 to 38 The difference lies in that the sperm sorting device 202 adds a liquid collection device auxiliary frame 140, which includes a top placement ring 141 for placing on the first protruding ring 43 of the first kit 41, multiple connecting ribs 142 extending from the top placement ring 141 toward the bottom end and gradually approaching the axis I and located in the first inner cylinder surface 421 of the first sleeve 42, and a bottom liquid collection block 143 connecting the bottom end of the connecting ribs 142 and located at the top end of the first permeable membrane 44.

[0218] It is worth noting that the top placement ring 141 of the liquid dispenser auxiliary frame 140 can be integrated with the first kit 41. In this way, the liquid dispenser auxiliary frame 140 only needs to include the connecting rib 142 disposed in the first inner cylinder surface 421 and gradually approaching the axis I, and the bottom liquid dispensing block 143 connected to the bottom end of the connecting rib 142 and located at the top end of the first permeable membrane 44.

[0219] In use, the needle of a liquid extractor (not shown, such as a syringe) is placed against the bottom liquid extraction block 143 to smoothly extract the first sorting liquid 120 and the motile sperm 110, and to avoid accidentally puncturing the first permeable membrane 44 during operation.

[0220] See Figures 42 to 44 The sperm sorting device 203 of the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3' and a sorting unit 150.

[0221] The sorting unit 150 includes a third sorter 151, which has a third kit 152 and a third permeable membrane 158.

[0222] The third assembly 152 has a third sleeve 153 for insertion into the receiving space 33' around the axis I, a third protruding ring 154 extending from the top of the third sleeve 153 toward a direction away from the axis I and located on the top surface 322' of the surrounding wall 32', a suction ring 155 extending from the bottom of the third sleeve 153 toward a direction close to the axis I, a liquid dispenser limiting groove 156 provided on the suction ring 155 and open at the top, and an indicator line 157 corresponding to the liquid dispenser limiting groove 156 provided on a third inner cylinder surface 1531 of the third sleeve 153.

[0223] The third sleeve 153 has a third inner cylinder surface 1531, a third outer cylinder surface 1532 surrounding the third inner cylinder surface 1531, and a third cylinder bottom surface 1533 connecting the third inner cylinder surface 1531 and the third outer cylinder surface 1532.

[0224] The suction ring 155 has a top surface 1551, a bottom surface 1552, and a central hole 1553 connecting the top surface 1551 and the bottom surface 1552. The bottom surface 1552 extends from the bottom surface 1533 of the third sleeve 153 toward the axis I and gradually approaches the top surface 1551, so that the height of the bottom surface 1552 of the suction ring 155 gradually decreases from the bottom end of the third sleeve 153 toward the axis I.

[0225] The liquid dispenser limiting groove 156 extends from the top surface 1551 of the ring toward the bottom surface 1552 of the ring, and has a groove bottom 1561 and a connecting portion 1562 that connects the groove bottom 1561 and the third permeable membrane 158. The width of the liquid dispenser limiting groove 155 is between 4μm and 5mm.

[0226] The third permeable membrane 158 is fixed to the bottom surface 1533 of the third cylinder of the third sleeve 153, and cooperates with the suction ring 155 and the third inner cylinder surface 1531 to define a third sorting chamber 159 with an open top. The third permeable membrane 158 has a plurality of third micropores 1581 for the passage of the motile sperm 110, a fixing part 1582 fixed around the axis I to the bottom surface 1533 of the third cylinder of the third sleeve 153, and a permeable part 1583 extending from the fixing part 1582 toward the axis I. The permeable part 1583 is flat.

[0227] When the third sleeve 153 of the third kit 152 is placed into the receiving space 33', the third permeable membrane 158 cooperates with the bottom wall 31' and the inner wall surface 321' of the surrounding wall 32' to define a third specimen chamber 2031 for receiving the semen specimen 100.

[0228] The sperm sorting device 203 connects the suction ring 155 to the liquid collector limiting groove 156. The operator simply inserts the needle of a liquid collector (not shown, such as a syringe) into the liquid collector limiting groove 156 and abuts it against the bottom 1561 of the groove to retrieve the first sorting liquid 120 and the highly motile sperm 110. This avoids the needle piercing the third permeable membrane 158. Since the liquid collector limiting groove 156 connects to the third permeable membrane 158 through the connecting portion 1562, the first sorting liquid 120 located between the third permeable membrane 158 and the bottom surface 1552 of the suction ring 155 can be drawn out, thereby reducing the residual amount of the first sorting liquid 120. The indicator line 157 guides the operator to insert the needle of the liquid collector into the liquid collector limiting groove 156.

[0229] Furthermore, by extending the bottom surface 1552 of the ring from the bottom surface 1533 of the third sleeve 153 toward the direction close to the axis I and gradually approaching the top surface 1551 of the ring, the fixing area between the bottom surface 1533 of the third sleeve and the fixing part 1582 of the third permeable membrane 158 can be reduced, thereby relatively increasing the permeable area of ​​the third permeable membrane 158.

[0230] See Figures 45 to 47 The sperm sorting device 204 of the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3' and the sorting unit 150.

[0231] The sperm sorting device 204 and the sperm sorting device 203 (see Figures 42 to 44 The difference lies in that the liquid collector limiting groove 156' of the third component 152 of the sperm sorting device 204 extends from the top surface 1551 of the ring toward the bottom surface 1552 of the ring, and has a groove bottom 1561' and a connecting portion 1562' that connects the groove bottom 1561' and the central hole 1553, so that the liquid collector limiting groove 156' connects to the third permeable membrane 158. In this way, it also has the function of preventing the needle of the liquid collector (not shown) from puncturing the third permeable membrane 158, and can draw out the first sorting liquid 120 located between the third permeable membrane 158 and the bottom surface 1552 of the suction ring 155, thereby reducing the residual amount of the first sorting liquid 120.

[0232] In addition, the aspiration ring 155 also has a plurality of vent holes 1554 connecting the top surface 1551 and the bottom surface 1552 of the ring. In this way, when the operator drops the first sorting liquid 120 onto the third permeable membrane 158, if air bubbles are generated between the bottom surface 1552 of the ring and the third permeable membrane 158, the air bubbles can be discharged through the vent holes 1554 to ensure that the third permeable membrane 158 is covered with the first sorting liquid 120, so that the motile sperm 110 upstream can pass smoothly through the third permeable membrane 158.

[0233] See Figures 48 to 50 The sperm sorting device 205 of the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3' and the sorting unit 150.

[0234] The sperm sorting device 205 and the sperm sorting device 203 (see Figures 42 to 44 The difference is that the aspiration ring 155 of the third component 152 of the sperm sorting device 205 is not provided with the liquid collector limiting groove 156, and the third permeable membrane 158' has a plurality of third micropores 1581', a fixing part 1582', and a permeable part 1583' extending from the fixing part 1582' toward the axis I and protruding toward the top.

[0235] In use, the operator only needs to place the needle of a liquid extractor (not shown, such as a syringe) against the top surface 1551 of the extraction ring 155 to extract the first sorting liquid 120 and the highly motile sperm 110, which has the effect of preventing the needle of the liquid extractor from piercing the third permeable membrane 158'.

[0236] The sperm sorting device 205 protrudes towards the top through the permeable part 1583', which can increase the permeable area and reduce the space between the permeable part 1583' and the bottom surface 1552 of the suction ring 155, thereby reducing the amount of the first sorting liquid 120 remaining below the bottom surface 1552 of the suction ring 155.

[0237] See Figures 51 to 53 The sperm sorting device 206 of the seventeenth embodiment of the present invention includes the base 3' and a sorting unit 160.

[0238] The sorting unit 160 includes the first sorter 40 and a fourth sorter 170. The first sorter 40 also has the first kit 41 and the first permeable membrane 44. The first permeable membrane 44 cooperates with the inner wall surface 321' of the bottom wall 31' and the surrounding wall 32' to define the first specimen chamber 211' for accommodating the semen specimen 100. The first permeable membrane 44 cooperates with the first inner cylinder surface 421 of the first sleeve 42 to define the first sorting chamber 45 with the top open.

[0239] In addition, the first assembly 41 also has a suction ring 48 extending from the bottom end of the first sleeve 42 toward a direction close to the axis I. The suction ring 48 has a top surface 481, a bottom surface 482, a central hole 483 connecting the top surface 481 and the bottom surface 482, and a plurality of vent holes 484 connecting the top surface 481 and the bottom surface 482. The bottom surface 482 extends from the bottom surface 423 of the first sleeve 42 toward a direction close to the axis I and gradually approaches the top surface 481, so that the height of the bottom surface 482 of the suction ring 48 gradually decreases from the bottom end of the first sleeve 42 toward the axis I.

[0240] The fourth sorter 170 has a fourth kit 171 and a fourth permeable membrane 176.

[0241] The fourth assembly 171 has a fourth sleeve 172 for insertion into the first sleeve 42 around the axis I, a fourth protruding ring 173 extending from the top of the fourth sleeve 172 toward a direction away from the axis I and located on the first protruding ring 43, a suction ring 174 extending from the bottom of the fourth sleeve 172 toward a direction close to the axis I and forming a central hole 1741, and a liquid dispenser limiting groove 175 disposed on the suction ring 174, with its top open and communicating with the central hole 1741.

[0242] The fourth permeable membrane 176 is fixed to the bottom surface of the fourth sleeve 172 and cooperates with the suction ring 174 and a fourth inner cylinder surface 1721 of the fourth sleeve 172 to define a fourth sorting chamber 177 with an open top. The fourth permeable membrane 176 connects the central hole 1741 and the liquid extractor limiting groove 175. The fourth permeable membrane 176 has a plurality of fourth micropores 1761 for the more active motile sperm 111 to pass through.

[0243] The sperm sorting device 206 is used to perform a two-layer sperm sorting operation, and its use is similar to that of the sperm sorting device 203 (see...). Figures 11 to 13 The difference is that the operator inserts the needle of a liquid extractor (not shown, such as a syringe) into the limiting groove 175 of the liquid extractor, and can directly take out the second sorting liquid 121 and the more active motile sperm 111 from the limiting groove 175 of the liquid extractor. In this way, the needle of the liquid extractor can be prevented from piercing the fourth permeable membrane 176.

[0244] Furthermore, by setting the suction ring 48 and the vent hole 484 in the first kit 41, when the operator drops the first sorting liquid 120 onto the first permeable membrane 44, if air bubbles are generated between the bottom surface 482 of the ring and the first permeable membrane 44, the air bubbles can be discharged through the vent hole 484, ensuring that the first permeable membrane 44 is covered with the first sorting liquid 120, so that the motile sperm 110 upstream can pass smoothly through the first permeable membrane 44.

[0245] As the bottom surface of the suction ring 174 of the fourth sleeve 172 extends from the bottom surface of the fourth sleeve 172 toward the direction close to the axis I and gradually approaches the top surface of the ring, the suction ring 174 may also have multiple vent holes connecting the top surface and the bottom surface of the ring. The effect produced by the vent holes is the same as that produced by the vent holes 484, and will not be described in detail.

[0246] The following points are worth noting:

[0247] (i) The first micropore 441 of the first permeable membrane 44, the second micropore 551 of the second permeable membrane 55, the third micropore 1581 of the third permeable membrane 158, and the fourth micropore 1761 of the fourth permeable membrane 176 of the present invention can be ordinary pores or pores formed by weaving. In addition, the first permeable membrane 44, the second permeable membrane 55, the third permeable membrane 158, and the fourth permeable membrane 176 can be a multilayer membrane stacked structure.

[0248] (II) In addition to being applicable to human sperm sorting, this invention is also applicable to sperm sorting in various animals. Furthermore, the heights of the first specimen chambers 211, 211', the second specimen chamber 241, and the third specimen chamber 2031 can be varied. For example: (1) for sperm sorting in rams, the height of the specimen chambers is a minimum of 67.2 μm and a maximum of 35.64 cm; (2) for sperm sorting in male goats, the height of the specimen chambers... The minimum height is 59.39 μm and the maximum height is 16.00 cm. (3) For bull sperm sorting, the minimum height of the specimen chamber is 53.53 μm and the maximum height is 13.68 cm. (4) For boar sperm sorting, the minimum height of the specimen chamber is 54.6 μm and the maximum height is 8.06 cm. (5) For rooster sperm sorting, the minimum height of the specimen chamber is 99.36 μm and the maximum height is 7.65 cm.

[0249] In summary, the present invention has the effects and advantages described below, and therefore can indeed achieve the purpose of the present invention.

[0250] I. By placing the first sleeve 42 of the first sorter 40 into the accommodating space 33 and positioning it, the gas originally located in the first specimen chamber 211 can be squeezed out of the first specimen chamber 211 or squeezed into the first permeable gap 212. In this way, the motile sperm 110 with strong motility in the semen specimen 100 can naturally flow upward through the first permeable membrane 44, which can improve the sperm sorting quality. According to experimental results, the motile sperm 110 obtained by the present invention has excellent total motility and forward motility.

[0251] Second, by setting the height adjustment units 9 and 9' between the base 3 and the first sorter 40, the present invention can adjust the volume of the first specimen chamber 211 and the gap size of the first transparent gap 212.

[0252] Third, by installing the gasket 95 between the top surface 322 of the base 3 and the bottom surface 432 of the first convex ring 43 of the first sorter 40, the present invention can increase the volume of the first specimen chamber 211 and the gap of the first transparent gap 212.

[0253] Fourth, the present invention, by stacking the first sorter 40 or the second sorter 50 on the base 3, can not only improve the quality of sperm sorting and simplify the sperm sorting process, but also reduce the error rate of operators.

[0254] Fifth, the present invention allows the semen sample 100 to be dripped from the opening 331 of the base 3 into the receiving space 33 using a dropper (not shown), without the need for a syringe, making the operation more convenient.

[0255] VI. After the sorting operation is completed, the first sorter 40 can be removed from the base 3 and placed directly on the stage of the microscope (not shown) for analysis of the motile sperm 110, which is convenient to operate.

[0256] VII. After the sorting operation is completed, the second sorter 50 can be removed from the first sorter 40 and placed directly on the stage of the microscope (not shown) for analysis of the motile sperm 111, which is more convenient to operate.

[0257] 8. By setting the aspiration ring 155 in the third component 152 of the third sorter 151, the operator only needs to place the needle of the liquid extractor against the top surface 1551 of the ring to extract the first sorting liquid 120 and the motile sperm 110, which has the effect of not puncturing the third permeable membrane 158.

Claims

1. A sperm sorting device, suitable for sorting multiple motile sperm from a semen sample, the sperm sorting device comprising a base and a sorting unit; characterized in that: The base includes a bottom wall and a surrounding wall extending from the periphery of the bottom wall toward the top and around an axis, the bottom wall and the surrounding wall cooperating to define an accommodating space with an opening, the surrounding wall having an inner wall surface and a top surface; The sorting unit includes a first sorter for positioning on the base, the first sorter having a first assembly and a first permeable membrane. The first kit has a first sleeve surrounding the axis and for insertion into the receiving space, the first sleeve having a first inner cylinder surface, a first outer cylinder surface surrounding the first inner cylinder surface, and a first cylinder bottom surface connecting the first inner cylinder surface and the first outer cylinder surface; The first permeable membrane is fixed to the first sleeve and cooperates with the surface of the first inner cylinder to define a first sorting chamber with an open top. The first permeable membrane has a plurality of first micropores for the passage of the motile sperm. The first sorter also has a liquid dispenser socket disposed on the first inner cylinder surface of the first kit and located in the first sorting chamber; The first permeable membrane, in conjunction with the inner wall of the bottom wall and the surrounding wall, defines a first specimen chamber for accommodating the semen specimen, and the inner wall of the surrounding wall, in conjunction with the first outer wall of the first sleeve, defines a first permeable gap connecting the first specimen chamber.

2. The sperm sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sorting unit also includes another first sorter, the first sleeve of which is inserted into the first sleeve of the first sorter, and the other first sorter and the first sorter are stacked along the axis.

3. The sperm sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first kit also has a first convex ring extending from the top of the first sleeve in a direction away from the axis and located on the top surface of the surrounding wall.

4. The sperm sorting device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The inner wall surface of the surrounding wall cooperates with the first outer cylinder surface of the first sleeve to define a first permeable gap that connects to the first specimen chamber. The first convex ring has a top surface, a bottom surface, and a circumferential surface that connects the top surface and the bottom surface. The bottom surface forms a first air escape groove that extends from the first outer cylinder surface to the circumferential surface and connects to the first permeable gap.

5. The sperm sorting device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first convex ring has a top surface, a bottom surface, and a circumferential surface connecting the top surface and the bottom surface. The sperm sorting device further includes a height adjustment unit, which includes a first step disposed on the top surface of the base and radially opposite to each other; a second step connected to the first step and with a lower height along the axis than the first step and radially opposite to each other; a third step connecting the first step and the second step and with a lower height along the axis than the second step and radially opposite to each other; a first seat disposed on the bottom surface of the ring and radially opposite to each other; a second seat connected to the first seat and radially opposite to each other; and a third seat connecting the first seat and the second seat and radially opposite to each other. When the first seat is placed on the third step, the second seat is placed on the second step, and the third seat is placed on the first step, the sperm sorting device further includes a height adjustment unit. The sperm sorting device has a first height along the axis, the first permeable gap has a first air capacity, and the first specimen chamber has a first volume. When the first seat is placed on the second step, the second seat is located on the first step, and the third seat is located on the third step, the sperm sorting device has a second height along the axis, the first permeable gap has a second air capacity, and the first specimen chamber has a second volume. When the first seat is placed on the first step, the second seat is located on the third step, and the third seat is located on the second step, the sperm sorting device has a third height along the axis, the first permeable gap has a third air capacity, and the first specimen chamber has a third volume. The third air capacity is greater than the second air capacity, which is greater than the first air capacity, and the third volume is greater than the second volume, which is greater than the first volume.

6. The sperm sorting device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The sperm sorting device further includes a height adjustment unit, which includes a first internal thread section located on the inner wall surface of the surrounding wall of the base, and an external thread section located on the first outer cylinder surface of the first sleeve for screwing into the first internal thread section.

7. The sperm sorting device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The sperm sorting device further includes a height adjustment unit, which includes a first internal thread section located on the inner wall surface of the surrounding wall of the base, an external thread section located on the first outer cylinder surface of the first sleeve for screwing onto the first internal thread section, and a second internal thread section located on the first inner cylinder surface of the first sleeve.

8. The sperm sorting device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The sperm sorting device further includes a gasket installed between the top surface of the surrounding wall of the base and the first convex ring.

9. The sperm sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: An overflow channel is formed on the top surface of the surrounding wall.

10. The sperm sorting device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The sorting unit further includes a second sorter. The first sleeve of the first assembly of the first sorter has a first bottom surface connecting the first inner cylinder surface and the first outer cylinder surface. The first permeable membrane is fixed to the bottom surface of the first cylinder. The second sorter has a second assembly and a second permeable membrane. The second assembly has a second sleeve surrounding the axis and for insertion into the first sleeve, a second convex ring extending from the top of the second sleeve toward a direction away from the axis and located on the first convex ring, and an inner ring extending from the bottom of the second sleeve toward a direction close to the axis and tapering toward the top. The second sleeve has a second inner cylinder surface, a second outer cylinder surface surrounding the second inner cylinder surface, and a second bottom surface connecting the second inner cylinder surface and the second outer cylinder surface. The second permeable membrane is fixed to the bottom surface of the second cylinder and cooperates with the inner ring to define a second sorting chamber open at the top. The second permeable membrane has a plurality of second micropores.

11. The sperm sorting device according to claim 10, characterized in that: The first inner cylinder surface of the first sleeve and the second outer cylinder surface of the second sleeve cooperate to define a second transparent gap that connects to the first sorting chamber.

12. The sperm sorting device according to claim 11, characterized in that: The second convex ring of the second sorter has a top surface, a bottom surface, and a circumferential surface connecting the top surface and the bottom surface. The bottom surface of the second convex ring forms a second air escape groove that extends from the second outer cylinder surface to the circumferential surface and communicates with the second permeable gap.

13. The sperm sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first permeable pore is less than 3 mm.

14. The sperm sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The base also includes an annular groove disposed on the inner wall surface of the surrounding wall, and the first sorter also has a first annular groove disposed on the first inner cylinder surface of the first sleeve.

15. The sperm sorting device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The sperm sorting device further includes a snap-fit ​​unit disposed between the top surface of the surrounding wall and the first protruding ring. The snap-fit ​​unit includes at least one snap block disposed on one of the top surface of the surrounding wall and the first protruding ring, and at least one snap groove corresponding to the snap block disposed on the other of the top surface of the surrounding wall and the first protruding ring.

16. The sperm sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The liquid dispenser socket has a socket with a diameter between 4 μm and 5 mm.

17. The sperm sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The volume of the first specimen chamber is between 12ul and 400ml.

18. The sperm sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The distance between the first permeable membrane and the bottom wall is between 50 μm and 8.5 cm.

19. The sperm sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The area of ​​the first permeable membrane is less than 180 cm².

20. The sperm sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The diameter of each first micropore ranges from 2 μm to 50 μm.

21. The sperm sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first permeable membrane has a fixed portion surrounding the axis and fixed to the first sleeve, and a permeable portion extending from the fixed portion toward the axis, wherein the permeable portion extends in a non-flat manner.

22. A sperm sorting method, comprising the following steps: (A) Preparation of the sperm sorting device as described in claim 1; (B) Provide semen samples; (C) The semen sample is dripped into the receiving space from the opening of the base; (D) The first sleeve of the first sorter is placed into the accommodating space and positioned, the first permeable membrane is located above the semen sample, the semen sample is contained in the first sample chamber, and the air in the first sample chamber is squeezed out of the first sample chamber. (E) Drop the first sorting solution onto the first permeable membrane; (F) Allow to stand for 3 to 60 minutes. During this period, multiple highly motile sperm in the semen sample will swim upwards, pass through the first micropore of the first permeable membrane, enter the first sorting chamber, and mix with the first sorting solution; and (G) Remove the first sorting solution and the highly motile sperm from the first permeable membrane.

23. A sperm sorting method, comprising the following steps: (a) Preparation of the sperm sorting device as described in claim 10; (b) Provide a semen sample; (c) The semen sample is dripped into the receiving space through the opening of the base; (d) The first sleeve of the first sorter is placed into the accommodating space and positioned, the first permeable membrane is located above the semen sample, the semen sample is contained in the first sample chamber, and the air in the first sample chamber is squeezed out of the first sample chamber. (e) Drop the first sorting solution onto the first permeable membrane; (f) The second sleeve of the second sorter is placed into the first sorting chamber and positioned, with the second permeable membrane located above the first permeable membrane; (g) Drop the second sorting solution onto the second permeable membrane; (h) Allow to stand for 3 to 60 minutes. During this standing period, multiple highly motile sperm in the semen sample will swim upwards through the first micropore of the first permeable membrane and enter the first sorting chamber, mixing with the first sorting solution. Conversely, multiple highly motile sperm on the first permeable membrane will swim upwards through the second micropore of the second permeable membrane and enter the second sorting chamber, mixing with the second sorting solution. (i) Remove the second sorting solution and the more motile sperm from the second permeable membrane.

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