Microfluidic systems and methods to denude mammalian oocytes
US12383389B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 4, 2019 |
| Grant date | Aug 12, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 5, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01L3/502746
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Microfluidic systems are configured to process liquid samples that include cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), such as raw follicular fluid, in an automated and continuous manner to produce oocytes separate or “denuded” from surrounding cumulus cells. The systems include a substrate and a channel that can have two or more sub-channels. Each channel includes an inlet, an outlet, and one or more stages arranged in series. Each of the stages includes one or more expansion units and one or more constriction units. At least one stage includes constriction units having jagged internal surfaces, e.g., teeth, that help remove the cumulus cells from the COCs.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.