Ovarian transplantation without vascular pedicle in rabbits:hormonal function and histological features after subcutaneous implants

Abstract

Objective To assess the ovarian functional recovery after ovarian tissue transplantation without a vascular pedicle in rabbits. Methods Twenty-one young-adult rabbits were divided into four groups:Group A,positive control(n=5);group B,negative control(n=4);group C,autologous heterotropic transplantation(n=7);and group D,xenogenic heterotropic transplantation(n=5).After 18,25,35,45 and 55 days,the blood samples were collected from the auricle vena of rabbits. The concentrations of E2 and P were measured bv ECL technique. The rabbits were killed 60 days after the transplantation. The ovary and uterus complex was removed and isolated. The uterus complex was weighed,then checked histologically. The ovarian tissue was dehydrated and embedded in paraffin wax,and stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Results (1)In 5 cases of group C and 3 in group D,the cycle was re-established after autologous heterotropic transplantation;(2)As compared with group B,serum E2 and P concentrations in groups A,C and D showed statistically significant difference 25 days after ovarian tissue transplantation(P＜0.05). Subsequently,the levels were de scended gradually,and were most lower on 35th day. Later,serum E2 and P were increased renewedly,and statistically significant difference was found 55 days after transplantation(P＜0.05);(3)Histology of ovarian tissue and endometrium confirmed the vitalily of groups A,C and D. Conclusion Ovarian tissue transplantation without a vascular pedicle is feasible in rabbits,preserving hormonal and fertile functions. Key words: Ovary; Transplantation; Models,animal; Rabbits