Study Explores Chip Using Vibration Technology to Simplify Fertility Treatments - Video

A new study published in Lab on a Chip introduces a device developed by researchers at Cornell University that could revolutionize assisted reproductive technologies (ART). The innovation, a vibration-powered microfluidic chip, automates and simplifies oocyte cumulus removal (CR)—a crucial and delicate step in fertility treatments—while also making the procedure more accessible and affordable worldwide.

Oocyte cumulus removal is essential in ART procedures, like in vitro fertilization (IVF), as it allows embryologists to assess oocyte maturity and prepare eggs for fertilization. Traditionally, this process involves repeated manual flushing of the oocyte with a micropipette, requiring highly skilled technicians and posing a risk of damaging the cells. This time-intensive technique is both laborious and expensive, often limiting access in low-resource settings.

In response, the Cornell team developed a portable, disposable chip that uses vibration-induced flow to automate the CR process. The chip contains a spiral array of micropillars that, when vibrated, generate a whirling flow to separate cumulus cells from the oocyte. “This platform is a potential game-changer,” said Alireza Abbaspourrad, associate professor of food chemistry and ingredient technology in food science. “It reduces the need for skilled technicians, minimizes contamination risks and ensures consistent results – all while being portable and cost-effective.”

Unlike traditional methods, the oocytes remain safely in the chip’s loading chamber, while the detached cumulus cells are swept into a separate collection well.

To validate the chip’s safety and effectiveness, researchers compared fertilization and embryo development outcomes between oocytes treated with vibration-induced flow and those denuded manually. Fertilization rates were nearly identical—93.1% for the chip versus 90.7% for manual pipetting—while blastocyst formation rates were also comparable.

“This shows that our method doesn’t compromise the developmental potential of the oocytes,” Abbaspourrad said. “With this, you don’t need a highly trained human to do it. And what is really important is there is almost no chance of damaging or losing the cell.”

Reference: https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2025/09/good-vibrations-could-revolutionize-assisted-reproductive-technology