Micromanipulation of sperm by a laser generated optical trap

Journal Article · Wed Nov 01 00:00:00 EST 1989 · Fertility and Sterility; (USA)

OSTI ID:5098345

Tadir, Y; Wright, W H; Vafa, O; Ord, T; Asch, R H; Berns, M W ^[1]

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1. Univ. of California, Irvine (USA)

The force generated by the radiation pressure of a low power laser beam induces an optical trap which may be used to manipulate sperm. We studied the effect of the optical trap on sperm motility. A Nd:YAG laser beam was coupled to a conventional microscope and focused into the viewing plane by the objective lens. Sperm were caught in the trap and manipulated by a joy stick controlled motorized stage. After different exposure periods, the velocity and patterns were analysed by a computerized image processor. There were minor changes in sperm velocity when exposed to the trap for 30 seconds or less. A gradual decrease in the mean linear velocity was observed after 45 seconds of exposure. This optical micromanipulator may also be useful for studying the force generated by a single spermatozoa and evaluating the influence of drugs on motility.

• OSTI ID: 5098345
• Journal Information: Fertility and Sterility; (USA), Vol. 52:5; ISSN 0015-0282
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
LASER RADIATION
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
SPERMATOZOA
SENSITIVITY
MAN
NEODYMIUM LASERS
REPRODUCTION
ANIMALS
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION
GAMETES
GERM CELLS
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MAMMALS
PRIMATES
RADIATIONS
SOLID STATE LASERS
VERTEBRATES
560400* - Other Environmental Pollutant Effects