Fertilis develops a micro-fabricated device for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) that eliminates the need for a holding pipette, thereby reducing procedural complexity and minimizing oocyte trauma during injection. This technology enhances embryo quality and increases the efficiency of IVF treatments, addressing the challenges of declining fertility rates and the technical difficulties associated with traditional ICSI methods.
Funding
$2M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), a common technique in IVF, requires precise manipulation of oocytes, which can be technically challenging and potentially damaging due to the need for a holding pipette. The complexity of traditional ICSI methods can lead to oocyte trauma and variability in embryo quality, impacting the overall success of IVF treatments.
Solution
Fertilis is developing a micro-fabricated device designed to improve the ICSI process by eliminating the need for a holding pipette. The microICSI device supports the oocyte in a micro-well, reducing physical stress and simplifying the injection procedure. By reducing the reliance on manual dexterity, the device aims to minimize oocyte trauma, improve procedural efficiency, and enhance embryo development. The device utilizes a micron-3D printed support structure to cup the oocyte, allowing for more even distribution of pressure during microinjection.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes embryologists and IVF clinics seeking to improve the efficiency, consistency, and success rates of ICSI procedures, as well as reduce oocyte trauma.
Features
- Micro-fabricated device with microwell array to support individual oocytes during ICSI
- Integrated support structure eliminates the need for a holding pipette, reducing oocyte handling
- Designed to minimize oocyte invagination and physical stress during sperm injection
- Compatible with standard ICSI equipment and protocols
- Improved traceability of oocytes during the ICSI procedure with numbered microwells
- Streamlined workflow reduces pipette setup time and controller adjustments
- Constructed using two-photon polymerization 3D micro-printing for precise geometries