Preliminary observations on whole-ovary xenotransplantation as an experimental model for fertility preservation

Nichols-Burns SM, Lotz L, Schneider H, Adamek E, Daniel C, Stief A, Grigo C, Klump D, Hoffmann I, Beckmann M, Dittrich R (2014)


Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2014

Journal

Publisher: Elsevier

Book Volume: 29

Pages Range: 621-6

Journal Issue: 5

DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.07.017

Abstract

Ovarian tissue preservation and retransplantation is a promising strategy to restore fertility in cancer survivors. Ischaemia accompanying ovarian tissue grafting, however, can lead to significant follicle loss. Transplantation of the whole ovary by vascular anastomosis has been considered as an alternative to prevent widespread ischaemic damage. In this study, the feasibility and function of transplanting whole ovary with intact vasculature were evaluated, with the goal of developing a xenograft model for studies using donated human ovaries. Whole-swine ovaries with vascular pedicles were perfused and transplanted as intact ovaries by anastomosis into irradiated ovariectomized nude rats (n = 10). The observation period was between 1 and 4 weeks. Fresh swine ovaries served as controls (n = 10). Ovarian stroma and follicle populations were assessed through histological examination in both transplanted and control ovaries. Most of the transplanted whole ovaries (n = 6) maintained stromal quality and all preantral follicle classes were represented, although follicle numbers decreased compared with fresh control. Four transplanted ovaries were fibrotic after 1-4 weeks within the nude rat. Our results demonstrate transplantation of whole-pig ovary into nude rats is possible and support development of this xenograft model system for human studies.

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How to cite

APA:

Nichols-Burns, S.M., Lotz, L., Schneider, H., Adamek, E., Daniel, C., Stief, A.,... Dittrich, R. (2014). Preliminary observations on whole-ovary xenotransplantation as an experimental model for fertility preservation. Reproductive Biomedicine Online, 29(5), 621-6. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.07.017

MLA:

Nichols-Burns, Stephanie M., et al. "Preliminary observations on whole-ovary xenotransplantation as an experimental model for fertility preservation." Reproductive Biomedicine Online 29.5 (2014): 621-6.

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