Micromanipulation of sperm by a laser generated optical trap**Supported by National Institute of Health, RR 01192 Bethesda, Maryland, and Strategic Defense Initiative Organization, SDI 084-88-C-0025 Washington, D.C.††Presented at the 37th Annual Meeting of the Pacific Coast Fertility Society, Palm Springs, California, April 12 to 16 1989.
Abstract
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.
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