Artificial ovaries constructed from biodegradable chitin-based hydrogels with the ability to restore ovarian endocrine function and alleviate osteoporosis in ovariectomized mice.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Artificial ovary (AO) is an alternative approach to provide physiological hormone to post-menopausal women. The therapeutic effects of AO constructed using alginate (ALG) hydrogels are limited by their low angiogenic potential, rigidity, and non-degradability. To address these limitations, biodegradable chitin-based (CTP) hydrogels that promote cell proliferation and vascularization were synthesized, as supportive matrix.

Methods

In vitro, follicles isolated from 10-12-days-old mice were cultured in 2D, ALG hydrogels, and CTP hydrogels. After 12 days of culture, follicle growth, steroid hormone levels, oocyte meiotic competence, and expression of folliculogenesis-related genes were monitored. Additionally, follicles isolated from 10-12-days-old mice were encapsula

SUBMITTER: Xiang D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10197240 | biostudies-literature | 2023 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature