One-step automated bioprinting-based method for cumulus-oocyte complex microencapsulation for 3D in vitro maturation.

ABSTRACT: Three-dimensional in vitro maturation (3D IVM) is a promising approach to improve IVM efficiency as it could prevent cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) flattening and preserve its structural and functional integrity. Methods reported to date have low reproducibility and validation studies are limited. In this study, a bioprinting based production process for generating microbeads containing a COC (COC-microbeads) was optimized and its validity tested in a large animal model (sheep). Alginate microbeads were produced and characterized for size, shape and stability under culture conditions. COC encapsulation had high efficiency and reproducibility and cumulus integrity was preserved. COC-microbeads underwent IVM, with COCs cultured in standard 2D IVM as controls. After IVM, oocytes were analyzed f

SUBMITTER: Mastrorocco A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7485809 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature