Spermatozoa Discrimination via Fluorescence Signal Duration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for discriminating mammalian spermatozoa based on X or Y chromosomes using fluorochromes are unreliable due to dependence on DNA content differences and suffer from low detection yield and reproducibility issues.
Innovation Solution
A device with a microfluidic chip and fluorescence detection system that aligns spermatozoa spatially and uses the duration of fluorescence signatures to automatically discriminate X and Y spermatozoa, enhancing discrimination reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spermatozoa are discriminated based on DNA content differences and fluorescence intensity, then discrimination can be performed, but reliability and reproducibility are low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the discrimination parameter from fluorescence intensity to fluorescence signal duration. This parameter transformation resolves the reliability issue by using a measurement metric that is less sensitive to variations in labeling efficiency and semen quality, thereby improving discrimination consistency across different samples
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spatial orientation as an additional dimension for discrimination. By combining the orientation of spermatozoa in the transport channel with fluorescence signal duration, the system creates a two-dimensional discrimination approach that overcomes the limitations of single-parameter intensity-based methods
2Reliability
If spermatozoa are transported in a transport channel, then spatial orientation can be achieved, but detection yield remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-orienting spermatozoa in a specific spatial configuration within the transport channel before fluorescence detection. This pre-positioning ensures that when sperm pass through the detection zone, their orientation relative to the excitation source and detector is optimized, maximizing detection efficiency and yield
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical sorting methods with an optical detection system that measures fluorescence signal duration. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical manipulation while achieving reliable discrimination, thereby improving both reproducibility and detection throughput
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Improves the reliability and reproducibility of spermatozoa discrimination by leveraging the spatial orientation and duration of fluorescence signals, overcoming limitations of previous methods.
Implementation Method 1
excitation means for exciting the fluorescence emission of the labeled spermatozoa circulating in said transport channel
Implementation Method 2
X sperm, which are presumed to contain a greater amount of DNA, absorb a greater amount of fluorochrome than Y sperm
Data Source
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AI summary
The device comprises a transport channel (100), excitation means (4; 4') for exciting the fluorescence emission of the marked spermatozoa (SP) in the transport channel in a transport direction (Y), fluorescence detection means (5), and electronic processing means (7) for discriminating the marked spermatozoa (SP). The transport channel comprises a main plane of symmetry (PI) parallel to the transport direction (Y), and a cross-section, in a plane (X, Z) perpendicular to the transport direction (Y), that is symmetrical, that is characterised by a main axis of symmetry (A) and has a maximum transverse dimension (H), measured along this main axis of symmetry (A), and a minimum transverse dimension (E), smaller than the maximum transverse dimension (H), and measured along a secondary transverse axis (B) perpendicular to the main axis of symmetry (A).