Page 176 - ESHRE2019

The basis for tissue engineering
 The endometrium is the mucosal layer crucial for embryo implantation and development.
 Cellular and structural level:
 Epithelial (luminal and glandular), stromal, vascular
and immune cell compartment.
 Two main layers: stratum basalis (1/3) and stratum
functionalis (2/3).
 Three main developmental phases endometrium: proliferative, secretory and menstrual phase.
 Drastic changes in ECM composition.
Innovation
Foundation
25
Hydrogels and reproductive medicine
•Hydrogels: Insoluble network of crosslinked hydrophilic polymers.
• Pro: protection and immobilization of cells and drugs, easily modified, free transport of nutrients, injectable, biocompatibility, 3D printing.
• Con: difficult to sterilize, low mechanical strength.
•In reproductive medicine:
• Three‐dimensional organotypic culture models. • Embryo culture for in vitro fertilization and
investigation approaches (Matrigel, Agarose,
Collagen I).
• Treatment of pathologies (endometrial scarring).
Innovation
Foundation
26
Near future applications: Hydrogels
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