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Vertebrate reproductive science and technology
REVIEW

Three-dimensional systems for in vitro follicular culture: overview of alginate-based matrices

Ivina R. Brito A D , Isadora M. T. Lima B , Min Xu C , Lonnie D. Shea C , Teresa K. Woodruff C and José R. Figueiredo A
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Faculty of Veterinary, Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocyte and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), PPGCV, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE 60740-930, Brazil.

B Maurício de Nassau Faculty, Fortaleza, CE 60055-400, Brazil.

C Division of Reproductive Biology and Clinical Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago IL, 60611, USA.

D Corresponding author. Email: ivinabrito@yahoo.com.br

Reproduction, Fertility and Development 26(7) 915-930 https://doi.org/10.1071/RD12401
Submitted: 20 December 2012  Accepted: 12 June 2013   Published: 19 July 2013

Abstract

The in vitro culture of ovarian follicles has provided critical insight into the biology of the follicle and its enclosed oocyte and the physical interaction and communication between the theca and granulosa cells and the oocyte that is necessary to produce meiotically competent oocytes. Various two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) culture systems have been developed to evaluate the effect of growth factors, hormones, extracellular matrix components and culture conditions on follicle development and oocyte growth and maturation. Among these culture systems, 3D systems make it possible to maintain follicle structure and support communication between the various cell compartments within the follicle. In this review article, we will discuss the three main approaches to ovarian follicle culture: 2D attachment systems, 3D floating systems and 3D encapsulated systems. We will specifically emphasise the development of and advances in alginate-based encapsulated systems for in vitro follicle culture.

Additional keywords: cell culture, cytoskeleton, folliculogenesis, growth.


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