Evaluation of an ovary ‐on‐a‐chip in large mammalian models: Species specificity and influence of follicle isolation status

In this study, we utilized an innovative microfluidic dynamic system to support the in vitro survival of domestic cat and dog follicles enclosed within the ovarian cortex or isolated from ovarian cortex. Results indicate both species and tissue type‐specific differences in response to microfluidic culture. Domestic cat but not dog ovarian cortical tissue maintained viability under flow similar to conventional agarose gel controls. Preantral stage isolated follicles from both species grew most favorably in conventional alginate bead culture, but overall there was no influence of culture system on expression of follicle development or oocyte health markers. This system represents an important exploration toward the development of an improved ovarian in vitro culture system of large mammalian species (e.g., cats and dogs), which has potential applications for fertility preservation, reproductive toxicology, and endangered mammal conservation efforts.
Source: Journal of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine - Category: Biotechnology Authors: Tags: RESEARCH ARTICLE Source Type: research