In vitro modelling of the physiological and diseased female reproductive system
Author(s)
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
The maladies affecting the female reproductive tract (FRT) range from infections to endometriosis to carcinomas. In vitro models of the FRT play an increasingly important role in both basic and translational research, since the anatomy and physiology of the FRT of humans and other primates differ significantly from most of the commonly used animal models, including rodents. Using organoid culture to study the FRT has overcome the longstanding hurdle of maintaining epithelial phenotype in culture. Both ECM-derived and engineered materials have proved critical for maintaining a physiological phenotype of FRT cells in vitro by providing the requisite 3D environment, ligands, and architecture. Advanced materials have also enabled the systematic study of factors contributing to the invasive metastatic processes. Meanwhile, microphysiological devices make it possible to incorporate physical signals such as flow and cyclic exposure to hormones. Going forward, advanced materials compatible with hormones and optimised to support FRT-derived cells' long-term growth, will play a key role in addressing the diverse array of FRT pathologies and lead to impactful new treatments that support the improvement of women's health.
Date Issued
2021-09-15
Date Acceptance
2021-04-15
Citation
Acta Biomaterialia, 2021, 132, pp.288-312
ISSN
1742-7061
Publisher
Elsevier
Start Page
288
End Page
312
Journal / Book Title
Acta Biomaterialia
Volume
132
Copyright Statement
© 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. This manuscript is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International Licence http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
Identifier
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1742706121002695?via%3Dihub
Subjects
Animals
Female
Genitalia, Female
Primates
Reproduction
Genitalia, Female
Animals
Primates
Reproduction
Female
Biomedical Engineering
Publication Status
Published
Date Publish Online
2021-04-27