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Extracellular matrix-derived scaffolds in constructing artificial ovaries for ovarian failure: a systematic
Tong Wu1,2,3, Ke-Cheng Huang1,2,3, Jin-Feng Yan1,2,3,4
1National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
Human Reproduction Open
|May 14, 2023
Summary
Decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) scaffolds show promise for artificial ovaries, supporting cell and follicle growth in preclinical studies. However, standardized protocols and clinical applicability require further development.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Artificial ovaries represent a promising strategy for restoring ovarian function.
- Decellularization techniques are applied in reproductive tract tissue bioengineering.
- A comprehensive understanding of ovary-specific decellularization is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the state-of-the-art methodology for decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM)-based artificial ovaries.
- To assess the current preclinical evidence for dECM scaffolds in treating ovarian failure.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines.
- Searches were performed across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials until October 2022.
- Studies involving decellularized scaffolds seeded with ovarian cells or follicles were included; review articles and papers lacking essential components were excluded.
Main Results:
- Twelve eligible studies published between 2015 and 2022 were analyzed, primarily from Iran.
- Decellularization procedures, evaluation methods, and preclinical designs were detailed, focusing on detergent reagents, DNA/ECM detection, and ovarian function.
- dECM scaffolds derived from human and animal tissues supported ovarian cell growth, hormone production (estrogen, progesterone) with variability, and follicle development, with no reported serious complications.
Conclusions:
- Preclinical studies indicate that decellularized scaffolds can support ovarian cell and follicle growth both in vitro and in vivo.
- Limitations include variability in results, potential bias from single research groups, and incomplete methodological descriptions hindering quality analysis.
- Standardized decellularization protocols, quality control, and cytotoxicity assessments are needed for clinical translation; current dECM materials are not yet clinically applicable for artificial ovaries.
