title: Micromanipulation of sperm by a laser generated optical trap.
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.
authors.affiliation: Beckman Laser Institute, University of California, Irvine.
authors.forename: Y
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Tadir
authors.forename: W H
authors.initials: WH
authors.lastname: Wright
authors.forename: O
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Vafa
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Ord
authors.forename: R H
authors.initials: RH
authors.lastname: Asch
authors.forename: M W
authors.initials: MW
authors.lastname: Berns
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D007834:Lasers; D008297:Male; D012099:Reproductive Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation; D013081:Sperm Motility; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000528:radiation effects; D013997:Time Factors