Magnetic Microcatheters Revolutionize Fertility Treatments
San Sebastián, Saturday, 6 December 2025.
Nanobiosystems at CIC nanoGUNE have developed magnetic microcatheters to enhance fertility treatments, offering precise, non-invasive solutions that promise improved reproductive health outcomes.
A Leap in Fertility Treatment Technology
The recent development of magnetic microcatheters by the Nanobiosystems group at CIC nanoGUNE marks a significant advancement in reproductive medicine. These catheters offer a non-invasive and highly precise method for delivering treatments directly to targeted areas, such as the fallopian tubes, which is critical in fertility treatments. The technology utilizes a scalable method that integrates magnetic particles into elastomeric materials, allowing the catheters to be controlled externally via magnetic fields. This results in smooth, controlled navigation through complex anatomical structures without the risk of tissue damage inherent in traditional mechanical thrust methods [1].
Practical Applications and Potential Benefits
The magnetic microcatheters developed by CIC nanoGUNE have already demonstrated significant potential in various applications. By enabling the precise release of sperm or embryos within the reproductive tract, these devices could substantially increase the success rates of fertility treatments. Furthermore, the technology allows for the localized delivery of medications, which could reduce side effects and enhance treatment efficacy. This precision is particularly beneficial in cases of infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss, where traditional methods may fall short [1][2].
Integration into Broader Reproductive Healthcare
This innovation is not limited to fertility treatments alone; it represents a broader shift in reproductive healthcare towards minimally invasive procedures. The ability to fabricate these devices rapidly and in large quantities positions them well for widespread clinical adoption. The microcatheters’ biocompatibility and steerability make them suitable for a variety of gynecological applications, potentially transforming how treatments are administered and paving the way for new therapeutic strategies [3][4].
Future Implications for Precision Medicine
The implications of this technology extend beyond reproductive health, as its principles could be applied to other medical fields requiring precise navigation and targeted therapies. By reducing the invasiveness of procedures and improving the delivery of therapeutic agents, magnetic microcatheters could revolutionize the approach to precision medicine. This advancement underscores the potential for innovative technologies to enhance patient outcomes while minimizing procedural risks [1][5].