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DEVICE FOR COLLECTING UTERINE FLUID IN VIVO
WO21084153
The present invention describes a flexible intrauterine device for the in-vivo collection of uterine fluid, both in animals and in humans. The device consists of a flexible probe with spaces where the uterine fluid penetrates by capillary action. The probe is attached to a guide to facilitate handling. A protection sheath is used to avoid contamination with secretions from the cervix and vagina. The device allows the collection of uterine fluid for use both in the diagnosis of diseases and in the enrichment of embryo culture media. The use of natural reproductive fluids in assisted reproduction techniques has shown a higher number of cells per blastocyst, better embryo development kinetics, better DNA methylation and gene expression patterns, compared to control animals obtained with culture media artificial without fluids. The device, designed and developed by researchers at the University of Murcia, has a functional prototype, experimentally contrasted both in animals (bovine, equine, etc.) and in humans.
The device has the following advantages: - Great adaptability to any species: facilitated by the blunt tip and increasing diameter. - High performance: allows the entry of fluid by capillary action from wide areas of the endometrium, maximizing the efficiency of collection. - Great versatility: its design is adaptable to the dimensions and particular morphology of the uterine cavity of each species. - Prevents internal damage: due to its morphology and flexibility, it allows fluid to be captured from the uterus without causing iatrogenic injury to the endometrium, or altering the environmental conditions of the uterine cavity. - Safe: the tightness of the device prevents contamination of samples. In addition, the biocompatibility of the material with which it is manufactured makes it completely safe for the donor. - Practical and comfortable handling, thanks to the integrated guide.