title: The artificial ovary: current status and future perspectives.
abstract: Cryopreservation and transplantation of ovarian tissue has proved to be a promising technique to safeguard fertility in cancer patients. However, with some types of cancer, there is a risk of transmitting malignant cells present in the cryopreserved tissue, so transplantation after disease remission is not advisable. To restore fertility in these patients, some research teams have been developing a transplantable artificial ovary, whose main goal is to mimic the natural organ. It should be composed of a matrix that encapsulates and protects follicles, as well as ovarian cells, which are necessary for follicle survival and development. This article reviews progress made in the creation of a transplantable artificial ovary and discusses future trends for its development.
authors.affiliation: Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte. B1.52.02, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
authors.forename: Christiani A
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Amorim
authors.affiliation: Department of Macromolecular Science & Engineering, University of Michigan, 1101 Beal Avenue, Room 2126 LBME, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2110, USA.
authors.forename: Ariella
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Shikanov
mesh_terms: D040761:Biomimetic Materials; D015925:Cryopreservation; D005109:Extracellular Matrix; D005260:Female; D059247:Fertility Preservation; D006801:Humans; D009865:Oocytes / Q000502:physiology; D016377:Organ Transplantation; D006080:Ovarian Follicle / Q000502:physiology; D010053:Ovary / Q000502:physiology*
keywords: artificial ovary; biomaterials; cancer patients; fertility preservation; in vitro culture; preantral follicles; transplantation