As the demand for the use of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) as part of the In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) process in assisted reproductive technology (ART) applications has increased, so has the burden of the microscopy work it involves. Olympus’ IX73SC assisted reproduction microscope solution helps facilitate the ICSI workflow, improving the speed and efficiency of each IVF procedure. The IX73SC system improves several fundamental features relating to ease of use and accuracy for ICSI and IMSI procedures, providing single button touch control for an optimized IVF workflow.
Easy Oocyte Condition Checks through Spindle Visualization
Olympus’ unique observation method enables you to easily view the metaphase II (MII) spindle through the microscope oculars with the touch of a button:
Confirm the oocyte’s maturity to facilitate the timing of the ICSI stage within the in vitro maturation (IVM) process. Never take your eye off the sample with single button operation of the visualization.
Confirm the spindle’s position relative to the polar body before inserting the pipette to decrease incidences of damage to the oocyte.
Verify the spindles of vitrified oocytes are stable after thawing. Verification contributes to improved accuracy.
Image of polar body and spindle
Streamlined ICSI Steps through Motorized Operation
Switch observation methods instantaneously and adjust the magnification with the press of a button on the integrated hand switch with Olympus’ unique motorized unit.
Improve your efficiency as motorized microscope adjustments reduce the number of steps required, enabling you to concentrate on the delicate work of operating the manipulator.
Manual focusing can be easily performed with a high degree of sensitivity in conjunction with the motorized observation and magnification.
Observation Methods
Relief Contrast
Unaffected by the polarizing effect of plastic dishes, Olympus’ relief contrast enables 3D imaging of oocytes so you can check the condition of the zona pellucida.
Correction collars on the 20X and 40X UIS2 objectives can optimize the image acquisition, based on the thickness of the bottom of the dish.
Polarization
Observe the birefringence of spindles using polarized light.
Adhesion of granulosa cells to the zona pellicida can be confirmed before the cumulus cells are even stripped.
(Application information and image are courtesy of David F. Albertini, Ph.D., Center for Human Reproduction, NY)
Relief contrast image in ICSI
Oocyte with cumulus cells
Applied Technologies
Morphological Evaluation of Sperm at High Magnification
Improve the sperm selection process:
Smooth zooming from 1x, 1.6x, to 2x using the adjustment lever.
Combine the zoom with the 40X objective lens to observe the morphology and internal structure of the sperm head in detail.
×1.0
×1.6
×2.0
Ease Lab Work with a Comfortable Design
Adjust the oculars to the position that is most convenient and comfortable for you—the vertical setting enables you do a quick check on the oocyte and embryo while standing.
Choices of Configuration
Motorized system
Manual system
In addition to the motorized IX73SC microscope, a manual-operation IX73SC microscope is available.
Specifications
Motorized system
Manual system
Microscope Frame
IX73 2 decks frame
Transmitted Light Illuminator
12V 100W halogen bulb
12V 100W halogen bulb, high color reproductive LED light source
Observation Tube
Widefield tilting binocular (FN22) with 10X eye piecies
Mechanical Stage with Right Handle
Stage stroke: X: 114mm x Y: 75mm, stage position locking function
Condenser
NA 0.5, W.D. 45mm, 4 positions for optical devices (motorized)
NA 0.5, W.D. 45mm, 4 positions for optical devices (manual)
Objective Lens
4X (NA 0.13, W.D. 17mm), 20X (NA 0.45, W.D. 6.6-7.8mm), 40X (NA 0.60, W.D. 3.0–4.2mm)
4X (NA 0.13, W.D. 17mm), 10X (NA 0.30, W.D. 9mm), 20X (NA 0.45, W.D. 6.6-7.8mm), 40X (NA 0.60, W.D. 3.0–4.2mm)
Operating Environment
Indoor use
Ambient temperature: 5 ºto 40ºC (41º to 104ºF)
Maximum relative humidity: 80% for temperatures up to 31ºC (88ºF), decreasing linearly through 70% at 34ºC (93ºF), 60% at 37ºC (99ºF), to 50% relative humidity at 40ºC (104ºF)
Supply voltage fluctuations: Not to exceed ±10% of the normal voltage