Engineered reproductive tissues

Nat Biomed Eng. 2020 Apr;4(4):381-393. doi: 10.1038/s41551-020-0525-x. Epub 2020 Apr 6.

Abstract

Engineered male and female biomimetic reproductive tissues are being developed as autonomous in vitro units or as integrated multi-organ in vitro systems to support germ cell and embryo function, and to display characteristic endocrine phenotypic patterns, such as the 28-day human ovulatory cycle. In this Review, we summarize how engineered reproductive tissues facilitate research in reproductive biology, and overview strategies for making engineered reproductive tissues that might eventually allow the restoration of reproductive capacity in patients.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Bioprinting
  • Cell Encapsulation
  • Female
  • Genitalia, Female* / transplantation
  • Genitalia, Male* / transplantation
  • Germ Cells
  • Humans
  • Hydrogels
  • Male
  • Microfluidics
  • Printing, Three-Dimensional
  • Reproduction*
  • Testis / transplantation
  • Tissue Engineering*
  • Tissue Scaffolds
  • Tissue Transplantation

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Hydrogels