Microfluidic technology for in vitro fertilization (IVF)

With the recent development in science and technology, the advancement in in vitro fertilization to treat infertility has been one of the most revolutionary advances. However, the success rate of the IVF process depends on the efficiency of each step of the process. The physical tools used to enhance the process continue to change. Microfluidics technology is an emerging technology being used in multiple biological applications for the miniaturization and specification of laboratory techniques. Technology is used along with IVF to enhance the outcome by facilitating every step of the process. Microfluidics can be used to handle gametes, culture embryos, cryopreservation, and for many other applications. This review will highlight the applications of microfluidics in different stages of IVF, including the handling of gametes, sperm collection and isolation, sperm sorting, embryo culture, cryopreservation and the fabrication process of microfluidics, focusing on the benefits and shortcomings of these applications.