Focus On IVF
Start life with Nikon microscope systems.
Nikon microscopes have played a key role in the development of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART); the United States’ first in vitro fertilization (IVF) baby was conceived with the help of a Nikon Diaphot inverted microscope. Nikon has provided outstanding optical quality and cell-friendly observation methods in response to the need of in vitro fertilization to minimize environmental stress during observation and maintain high cell viability.
Even today, microscopes play an important role in supporting the various steps of the ART cycle: from stereo microscopes for oocyte selection and purification, through inverted microscope systems for confirmation of fertilized oocyte and support for Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), to upright microscopes for spermatozoa assessment.
The ART Cycle
Andrology
An upright microscope with a phase-contrast observation device that increases sample contrast and enhances fine specimen detail, and an LED illumination that prevents heating of the sample, can be linked to Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA)* that measures the total amount and concentration and motility of motile and immobile sperm.
* Must be prepared by the user separately.
Oocyte dechorionation and follow up
Oocytes and embryos can be monitored at your preferred magnification with our stereo microscope offering various zoom magnifications. It has outstanding optical quality and homogeneous illumination throughout the entire field of view. Based on ergonomics, it is designed with the burden on the body due to long-term observation in mind. Choose your preferred magnification of work and we will advise and coordinate the installation in your biosafety cabinet and workspace.
Fertilization by ICSI
Since Nikon’s Advanced Modulation Contrast (NAMC) technique allows for colorless and transparent samples to be observed in high relief, it is possible to obtain optimal contrast levels for fine detail observation during sperm selection for ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) procedures. The ECLIPSE Ti2-I and ECLIPSE Ti2-U IVF inverted microscopes have expandability that allows mounting of various devices* for micro-insemination including microscope cameras.
The ECLIPSE Ti2-U IVF and ECLIPSE Ti2-I are MDR certified products in Europe.
* It is necessary for the user to prepare a separate micromanipulator and stage heater.
Spindle observation
This polarized light technique enables finely detailed observation of spindle bodies for oocyte assessment and the elimination of spindle damage during sperm injection. Switching between spindle observation and NAMC is fast and easy.
Spindle bodies (indicated by arrows) observed in different colors depending on their orientation. The color can be changed from blue to red by rotating the condenser module 90 degrees.
Image Documentation
Nikon offers a variety of camera and software options for every microscope model to help visualize and document every process in the ART Cycle from sperm selection to oocyte preparation to fertilization by ICSI to Embryo biopsy and assisted hatching.
* Cameras and software are not for clinical use.