Construction and Bioengineering of Human Bioprosthetic Ovaries from Cryopreserved Ovarian Tissue

Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Jun 10;26(12):5545. doi: 10.3390/ijms26125545.

Abstract

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is increasingly recognized as an effective fertility preservation option for cancer patients undergoing gonadotoxic therapies. After cancer treatment, transplantation of frozen-thawed ovarian tissue can restore both fertility and endocrine function. However, the threat of reintroducing malignant cells limits its application in patients with a high risk of ovarian metastasis. To eliminate potential cancer cells in grafts, a promising strategy involves isolating follicles from cryopreserved ovarian tissue and encapsulating them within biocompatible scaffolds to construct transplantable bioprosthetic ovaries. Here, we review the construction of bioprosthetic ovaries designed to mimic natural ovarian architecture, and further discuss the challenges in bioprosthetic ovary bioengineering along with potential strategies to address these issues.

Keywords: bioprosthetic ovaries; follicle loss; ovarian tissue cryopreservation; revascularization; scaffolds.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bioengineering* / methods
  • Bioprosthesis*
  • Cryopreservation* / methods
  • Female
  • Fertility Preservation* / methods
  • Humans
  • Ovarian Follicle
  • Ovary* / cytology
  • Ovary* / physiology
  • Ovary* / transplantation
  • Tissue Engineering* / methods
  • Tissue Scaffolds / chemistry