Tissue Transplantation Research Articles

Single-layer graphene oxide nanosheets induce proliferation and Osteogenesis of single-cell hBMSCs encapsulated in Alginate Microgels

Microfluidics cell encapsulation offers a way to mimic a 3D microenvironment that supports cell growth and proliferation, while also protecting cells from environmental stress. This technique has found extensive applications in tissue engineering and cell therapies. Several studies have demonstrated the advantages of graphene oxide (GO) as an osteogenic inducer; however, the significance of GO on stem cell fate in the single-cell state is still unclear. Here, a microfluidics-based approach is developed for continuous encapsulation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) at the single-cell level using alginate microgels. So, single-layer graphene oxide (slGO) nanosheet is used to be encapsulated inside the alginate droplets. The results of AFM and SEM show that slGO can increase the roughness and reduce the stiffness of alginate hydrogels. The Young’s modulus of the alginate and alginate-slGO was obtained as 1414 kPa and 985.9 kPa, respectively. Live/dead assay and fluorescence microscopy images illustrate that slGO can maintain the viability and proliferation of microencapsulated hBMSCs. The obtained results show that slGO increases the mineralization of the encapsulated hBMSCs, so that microgels containing hBMSCs gradually became opaque during 21 days of culture. RT-qPCR results indicate that the expression of OCN, Runx2, and ALP in the alginate-slGO microgels is significantly higher than in the alginate microgels. The expression of OCN and Runx2 in the alginate-slGO microgels is 4.27 and 5.87-fold higher than in the alginate microgels, respectively. It can be concluded that low doses of slGO nanosheets have the potential to be utilized in the development of tissue engineering and bone regeneration. This finding offers a new method for creating injectable tissue transplants that are minimally invasive.

Research Progress of Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation and Transplantation

Age, disease and anti-tumor treatment may cause the decline or even loss of female fertility. Embryo cryopreservation, oocyte cryopreservation and ovarian tissue cryopreservation are commonly used at present. Cryopreservation and transplantation of ovarian tissue has become a fertility preservation method with medical indications in clinic, which is helpful for patients to successfully complete fertility through this technology. This paper reviews the international research progress on ovarian cryopreservation and transplantation in recent years. Despite the rapid development of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation technology, it still faces challenges such as how to reduce the loss of follicular reserve and thus prolong the effectiveness of ovarian tissue transplantation. More basic and clinical research is needed to promote the progress and development of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation technology.

Promoting Equitable and Affordable Patient Access to Safe and Effective Innovations in Donation and Transplantation of Substances of Human Origin and Derived Therapies.

Innovation is a hallmark of organ, tissue, and cell transplantation. The development of new treatments derived from these substances of human origin (SoHO) has rapidly evolved in recent years. Despite the great benefits that these innovative therapies could bring to patients, significant difficulties have arisen in making them equitably and widely accessible. Herein, we identify and address 4 challenges to promote innovation in this field in a collaborative, sustainable, and transparent manner and propose some concrete solutions applicable to SoHO-derived treatments, ranging from cell therapies to solid organ transplantation. Regulators, health policymakers, and government officials are recommended to incorporate specific elements into the regulatory frameworks of their respective jurisdictions, although regulatory convergence and equivalent quality and safety standards applicable to SoHO at a global level would be needed. An innovation-driven regulatory environment, respectful with the human origin and in accordance with the altruistic donation of SoHO, should be encouraged to improve the safety, effectiveness, accessibility, and affordability of SoHO and to promote collaboration between countries and between public and private sectors. This overview is the outcome of a working group focused on "Innovation in the donation and clinical application of SoHO" as part of the international Summit "Towards Global Convergence in Transplantation: Sufficiency, Transparency and Oversight" convened by the Organización Nacional de Trasplantes under the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union in November 2023 and cosponsored by the Council of Europe, the World Health Organization, the Transplantation Society, and the European Society for Organ Transplantation.

Transplantation: A Priority in the Healthcare Agenda.

In November 2023, in the context of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the Organization National de Transplante organized a global summit discussing global action in transplantation for the next decade. This article reports the recommendations supporting the need to prioritize transplantation in healthcare systems. The working group investigated how transplantation addresses noncommunicable disease mortality, particularly related to kidney and liver disease. They also investigated how transplantation can contribute to the achievement of several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 3 (good health and well-being), Goal 8 (sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth and employment for all), and Goal 13 (combat climate change and its impact). By prioritizing transplantation, the increased availability and accessibility of life-saving organs and tissues to the public will not only lead to saving more lives and improving health outcomes for individual patients but also contribute to the development of a resilient health system in general in that country as a consequence of developing the infrastructure required for transplantation. The ethical principles associated with transplantation promote the principles of solidarity in society by fostering the donation process and equity in access to therapy. This article aims to advocate for the widespread availability of solid organ, tissue, and cell transplantation for all patients.

Molecules in Motion: Unravelling the Dynamics of Vascularization Control in Tissue Engineering.

Significant progress has been made in tissue engineering (TE), aiming at providing personalized solutions and overcoming the current limitations of traditional tissue and organ transplantation. 3D bioprinting has emerged as a transformative technology in the field, able to mimic key properties of the natural architecture of the native tissues. However, most successes in the area are still limited to avascular or thin tissues due to the difficulties in controlling the vascularization of the engineered tissues. To address this issue, several molecules, biomaterials, and cells with pro- and anti-angiogenic potential have been intensively investigated. Furthermore, different bioreactors capable to provide a dynamic environment for in vitro vascularization control have been also explored. The present review summarizes the main molecules and TE strategies used to promote and inhibit vascularization in TE, as well as the techniques used to deliver them. Additionally, it also discusses the current challenges in 3D bioprinting and in tissue maturation to control in vitro/in vivo vascularization. Currently, this field of investigation is of utmost importance and may open doors for the design and development of more precise and controlled vascularization strategies in TE.

3D-BIOPRINTING OF BONE TISSUE IN VITRO И IN SITU

Advanced techniques in bone tissue regeneration include innovative achievements in the field of tissue engineering, among which 3D bioprinting technology holds a special place. This method demonstrates significant progress, driven by its numerous advantages, confirmed through extensive scientific research. 3D bioprinting offers the capability of precise printing of bone transplants with specified geometry, incorporating necessary biomaterials such as cells and growth factors, which facilitates effective osteoinduction, osteoconduction, and vascularization. This review article analyzes various modern methods of bone tissue restoration, including the use of autotransplants, allotransplants, and synthetic bone transplants. Particular attention is paid to the latest innovations in 3D bioprinting, opening prospects for creating individualized bone tissues characterized by a high degree of biocompatibility and minimizing the need for invasive procedures. Additionally, the article presents the concept of in situ bioprinting, developed by Weiss and his colleagues in 2007, as a method of direct printing of bio-inks directly in the area of damage in a living organism. This progressive approach provides high precision in the restoration of tissue defects, regardless of their complexity and geometric features. Over the last decade, several successful clinical cases of using printed structures have been registered, demonstrating the significance of 3D bioprinting in treating life-threatening diseases, as well as in accelerating the regeneration process and creating tissue transplants for subsequent implantation.

3D Bioprinting for Engineered Tissue Constructs and Patient-Specific Models: Current Progress and Prospects in Clinical Applications.

Advancements in bioprinting technology are driving the creation of complex, functional tissue constructs for use in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Various methods, including extrusion, jetting, and light-based bioprinting, have their unique advantages and drawbacks. Over the years, researchers and industry leaders have made significant progress in enhancing bioprinting techniques and materials, resulting in the production of increasingly sophisticated tissue constructs. Despite this progress, challenges still need to be addressed in achieving clinically relevant, human-scale tissue constructs, presenting a hurdle to widespread clinical translation. However, with ongoing interdisciplinary research and collaboration, the field is rapidly evolving and holds promise for personalized medical interventions. Continued development and refinement of bioprinting technologies have the potential to address complex medical needs, enabling the development of functional, transplantable tissues and organs, as well as advanced in vitro tissue models.

Exploiting the Potential of Decellularized Extracellular Matrix (ECM) in Tissue Engineering: A Review Study.

While significant progress has been made in creating polymeric structures for tissue engineering, the therapeutic application of these scaffolds remains challenging owing to the intricate nature of replicating the conditions of native organs and tissues. The use of human-derived biomaterials for therapeutic purposes closely imitates the properties of natural tissue, thereby assisting in tissue regeneration. Decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) scaffolds derived from natural tissues have become popular because of their unique biomimetic properties. These dECM scaffolds can enhance the body's ability to heal itself or be used to generate new tissues for restoration, expanding beyond traditional tissue transfers and transplants. Enhanced knowledge of how ECM scaffold materials affect the microenvironment at the injury site is expected to improve clinical outcomes. In this review, recent advancements in dECM scaffolds are explored and relevant perspectives are offered, highlighting the development and application of these scaffolds in tissue engineering for various organs, such as the skin, nerve, bone, heart, liver, lung, and kidney.

Opportunities and Challenges of Application of Cytosorb Therapy in Sepsis Management

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction due to a dysregulated host response to infection. In 2017, an estimated 48·9 million incident cases of sepsis were recorded worldwide, and 11·0 million sepsis-related deaths were reported, representing 19·7% of all global deaths.1 Though overall data related to sepsis is poor but it is also a major health care challenge for resource limited countries. Severe sepsis is a significant & common health problem in ICU patients of Bangladesh2. A continuum of severity from sepsis to septic shock and multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) exists. MODS is a clinical syndrome characterized by the development of progressive and potentially reversible physiologic dysfunction in 2 or more organs or organ systems that is induced by a variety of acute insults, including sepsis. Sepsis leads to malignant intravascular inflammation, coagulopathy, circulatory derangement, tissue hypoxia, cytotoxicity and apoptosis. As a result, dysfunction of vital organ systems occur. Host response and other factors influenc outcome. Patients with sepsis must be treated with-timely, appropriate antibiotics, intravenousfluids, vasopressor and inotropic support & oxygen therapy.3 Other additional treatments including extracorporeal blood purification techniques (BPT). These techniques include hemofiltration, hemoperfusion, intermittent or continuous high-volume hemofiltration (HVHF), plasmapheresis or adsorption.4 The rationale behind such an approach is to achieve “immune homeostasis” which theoretically reduces the potential damage caused by dysregulation of the host response to infection. Given the pivotal role of cytokine production in sepsis, it follows that removal of these substances, through such BPT, may attenuate the response particularly in the early phase of sepsis.5 Indications include 1) Rhabdomyolysis resulting from Reperfusion syndrome, Trauma, Malignant Hyperthermia. 2) External injuries including Sepsis/Septic shock, Hemorrhagic shock, Trauma, Ruptured aortic aneurysm, Post-Cardiac Arrest Syndrome, Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, Extensive surgery, Organ transplantation, Cardiosurgical intervention, Severe skin and soft tissue damage, Burns, Necrotizing fasciitis, Post-Cardiotomy Syndrome, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. 3) Diseases: Pancreatitis, Liver insufficiency, Renal insufficiency, Stroke, Myocardial infarction, Cardiogenic shock/Heart failure, Tumor Lysis Syndrome, Hemophagocytosis Syndrome. Liver failure/Hyperbilirubinemia bridging to transplant or to recovery, Life-threatening bleeding under Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOAC)6. Bangladesh Crit Care J September 2024; 12 (2): 79-80

Human Biosafety Concept when Carrying out Medical Procedures Related to the Use of High Medical Technologies in the Field of Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues: Constitutional and Legal Aspect

The article is devoted to the analysis of the concept of human biosafety during medical procedures using high medical technologies in the field of transplantation of human organs and (or) tissues. An analysis of the regulatory framework in the field of ensuring human biological safety during medical procedures in the field of transplantation and donation is provided, which demonstrates that the biosafety of patients in the Russian Federation is ensured by providing recipients with high-quality biomaterial as strictly established by the legislator based on the achievements of modern medical science. The legislation establishes medical restrictions for potential donors in order to ensure the biological safety of recipients. Special requirements have also been established for medical personnel who have the right to carry out medical procedures related to the transplantation of human organs and tissues. The domestic legislator is actively implementing the concept of biological safety in the field of VMT use by establishing certain criteria and restrictions for this type of assistance, which ensures citizens the right to receive qualified, high-quality medical care in the field of transplantation and donation of human organs and (or) tissues.

Microsurgical assessment of thymus vascular anatomy

BackgroundThe thymus is pivotal for immune system development by facilitating T-cell maturation. Current treatments for congenital athymia typically involve avascular transplantation of allogeneic thymic tissue. However, vascularizing an infant thymus for transplantation could offer improved outcomes, necessitating a detailed understanding of its vascular anatomy. MethodBetween June and November 2022, we conducted a feasibility study at our tertiary care university hospital, examining seven thymus glands that were surgically removed and discarded during corrective surgeries for congenital heart disease in patients aged 16 days to 17 months. ResultsAngiographic analysis revealed distinct vascular pathways in infant thymic lobes, with arteries averaging 0.5 mm and veins 0.8 mm in diameter, both showing adequate perfusion with Belzer solution. ConclusionThese findings provide critical insights into the vascular anatomy of the infant thymus, underscoring its potential for microvascular revascularization and transplantation.

Paradigm Shift in Eye Banking: From Tissue Retrieval to Cellular Harvesting and Bioengineering.

An integrated cell, tissue, and eye bank is vital to meet the evolving needs of ocular transplant therapies. In addition to traditional corneal transplant tissues, it encompasses processing and delivery of transplant materials for newer treatments like cell-based therapies and gene-modified products, adhering to rigorous standards, optimizing tissue utilization with comprehensive services for surgeons.

The Role of the Pancreatic Extracellular Matrix as a Tissue Engineering Support for the Bioartificial Pancreas.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic condition primarily managed with insulin replacement, leading to significant treatment costs. Complications include vasculopathy, cardiovascular diseases, nephropathy, neuropathy, and reticulopathy. Pancreatic islet transplantation is an option but its success does not depend solely on adequate vascularization. The main limitations to clinical islet transplantation are the scarcity of human pancreas, the need for immunosuppression, and the inadequacy of the islet isolation process. Despite extensive research, T1DM remains a major global health issue. In 2015, diabetes affected approximately 415 million people, with projected expenditures of USD 1.7 trillion by 2030. Pancreas transplantation faces challenges due to limited organ availability and complex vascularization. T1DM is caused by the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic cells. Advances in biomaterials, particularly the extracellular matrix (ECM), show promise in tissue reconstruction and transplantation, offering structural and regulatory functions critical for cell migration, differentiation, and adhesion. Tissue engineering aims to create bioartificial pancreases integrating insulin-producing cells and suitable frameworks. This involves decellularization and recellularization techniques to develop biological scaffolds. The challenges include replicating the pancreas's intricate architecture and maintaining cell viability and functionality. Emerging technologies, such as 3D printing and advanced biomaterials, have shown potential in constructing bioartificial organs. ECM components, including collagens and glycoproteins, play essential roles in cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. Clinical applications focus on developing functional scaffolds for transplantation, with ongoing research addressing immunological responses and long-term efficacy. Pancreatic bioengineering represents a promising avenue for T1DM treatment, requiring further research to ensure successful implementation.

Comparative analysis of porcine-uterine decellularization for bioactive-molecule preservation and DNA removal.

Decellularized uterine extracellular matrix has emerged as a pivotal focus in the realm of biomaterials, offering a promising source in uterine tissue regeneration, research on disease diagnosis and treatments, and ultimately uterine transplantation. In this study, we examined various protocols for decellularizing porcine uterine tissues, aimed to unravel the intricate dynamics of DNA removal, bioactive molecules preservation, and microstructural alterations. Porcine uterine tissues were treated with 6 different, yet rigorously selected and designed, protocols with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), Triton® X-100, peracetic acid + ethanol, and DNase I. After decellularization, we examined DNA quantification, histological staining (H&E and DAPI), glycosaminoglycans (GAG) assay, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). A comparative analysis among all 6 protocols was conducted with the results demonstrating that all protocols achieved decellularization; while 0.1% SDS + 1% Triton® X-100, coupled with agitation, demonstrated the highest efficiency in DNA removal. Also, it was found that DNase I played a key role in enhancing the efficiency of the decellularization process by underscoring its significance in digesting cellular contents and eliminating cell debris by 99.79% (19.63 ± 3.92ng/mg dry weight). Our findings enhance the nuanced understanding of DNA removal, GAG preservation, microstructural alteration, and protein decomposition in decellularized uterine extracellular matrix, while highlighting the importance of decellularization protocols designed for intended applications. This study along with our findings represents meaningful progress for advancing the field of uterine transplantation and related tissue engineering/regenerative medicine.

Revolutionizing Intervertebral Disc Regeneration: Advances and Future Directions in Three-Dimensional Bioprinting of Hydrogel Scaffolds.

Hydrogels are multifunctional platforms. Through reasonable structure and function design, they use material engineering to adjust their physical and chemical properties, such as pore size, microstructure, degradability, stimulus-response characteristics, etc. and have a variety of biomedical applications. Hydrogel three-dimensional (3D) printing has emerged as a promising technique for the precise deposition of cell-laden biomaterials, enabling the fabrication of intricate 3D structures such as artificial vertebrae and intervertebral discs (IVDs). Despite being in the early stages, 3D printing techniques have shown great potential in the field of regenerative medicine for the fabrication of various transplantable tissues within the human body. Currently, the utilization of engineered hydrogels as carriers or scaffolds for treating intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) presents numerous challenges. However, it remains an indispensable multifunctional manufacturing technology that is imperative in addressing the escalating issue of IVDD. Moreover, it holds the potential to serve as a micron-scale platform for a diverse range of applications. This review primarily concentrates on emerging treatment strategies for IVDD, providing an in-depth analysis of their merits and drawbacks, as well as the challenges that need to be addressed. Furthermore, it extensively explores the biological properties of hydrogels and various nanoscale biomaterial inks, compares different prevalent manufacturing processes utilized in 3D printing, and thoroughly examines the potential clinical applications and prospects of integrating 3D printing technology with hydrogels.

From Harvest to Healing: The Evolution of Bone Grafts In Oral Implantology

Bone grafts are surgical procedures that involve the transplantation of bone tissue to repair or reconstruct damaged bones. They are commonly used in various medical fields, including dentistry, orthopedics, and particularly within oral and maxillofacial surgery, prosthodontics, and oral radiology, to promote healing and support the integration of implants. This review embarks on a transformative journey through the evolution of bone grafting techniques in oral implantology, beginning with the rudimentary harvesting methods and their inherent limitations. It transitions to modern innovations, spotlighting synthetic and bioengineered materials that enhance biocompatibility and minimize patient morbidity. Key advancements in minimally invasive techniques and guided bone regeneration are meticulously examined, along with the revolutionary impact of 3D imaging and printing technologies on graft customization. The review underscores the synergy between biological principles and cutting-edge technology, illustrating how these breakthroughs not only lead to superior surgical outcomes but also foster improved patient healing and satisfaction. Ultimately, the evolution of bone grafts marks a significant paradigm shift towards more effective, patient-centered strategies in oral implantology. This exploration highlights the pivotal role of advanced bone grafting methods in bolstering osseointegration and ensuring overall implant success, showcasing a commitment to enhancing both clinical efficacy and patient experience for prosthodontists, periodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons,oral radiologists, and dentists alike.

Structure Of The Single Health System For Diagnosis Of Htlv-1/2 In The Northern Region Of Tocantins

Background: The Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV), the first human retrovirus discovered, is associated with oncogenesis and is subdivided into several groups, with types 1 and 2 being the most prevalent and clinically relevant. Its main forms of transmission include unprotected sexual intercourse, blood transfusions, tissue and organ transplants, as well as vertical transmission (mother to newborn). In Brazil, mandatory testing for HTLV was implemented in the 1990s for blood donations and transplants, and expanded in 2024 by Ordinance No. 3,148 of the Ministry of Health, which includes testing during prenatal care. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the structure of the Unified Health System (SUS) in the municipalities of the far north of Tocantins for the diagnosis of HTLV-1/2. Methodology: This is a qualitative study, in which semi-structured questionnaires were applied to Primary Care professionals and municipal health managers. Results: The results indicated significant deficiencies in knowledge of national protocols and the absence of a structured municipal flow for testing. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the health structure of the municipalities evaluated is insufficient for the effective diagnosis of HTLV-1/2

Maxillectomy and its ophthalmic implications: A comprehensive analysis over 20 years

PurposeMaxillectomy, a critical surgical intervention for head and neck malignancies, often leads to a comprehensive spectrum of ophthalmic complications due to its impact on orbital structures. This study, conducted over 20 years at a single university hospital, aims to evaluate the extent and severity of these complications, encompassing the entire range of ophthalmological issues encountered in the field. DesignA retrospective, observational cohort study. MethodsAmong the 163 patients who underwent maxillectomy at a single university hospital between January 2003 and December 2022, we analyzed the medical records of 101 patients with over one year of postoperative ophthalmological follow-up. Data on demographics, clinical parameters, surgical details, and ophthalmic complications were collected. Complications were categorized into six groups, with statistical analysis identifying factors influencing these outcomes. ResultsOur findings reveal a predominant occurrence of ophthalmic complications among maxillectomy patients. Only 4.4 % had no complications, while 95.6 % experienced at least one, especially with cornea/conjunctiva (56 %), eyelid (48.4 %), and lacrimal system issues (38.5 %) being the most frequent. Notably, 64.8 % had complications in two or more categories, and 33 % in three or more. Multivariate analysis identified that orbital floor resection was a significant risk factor for complications involving the eyelid and the cornea/conjunctiva (P = 0.008 and P = 0.021, respectively), while radiotherapy specifically emerged as a significant risk factor for cornea/conjunctiva complications (P = 0.009). Surgical management of complications following maxillectomy often involved major tissue transplantation in plastic surgery, particularly for cases of significant tissue contraction or severe orbital dystopia. Common secondary ophthalmic surgeries included dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in 14 eyes, tarsorrhaphy in 12 eyes, and lateral tarsal strip procedures in 5 eyes. The study found a high incidence of multiple complications, highlighting the complex nature of postoperative challenges. ConclusionMaxillectomy patients are highly susceptible to a range of ophthalmological complications, primarily influenced by surgical extent and adjuvant therapies. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for comprehensive management and improved quality of life in these patients. The study underscores the need for thorough ophthalmological evaluation and integrated care in treating maxillectomy-related complications.

Development of a P(L-D,L)LA Foam as a Dura Substitute and Its In Vitro Evaluation

Dura substitutes are used to reduce the risk of postoperative complications following neurosurgical interventions, and to facilitate the healing of dura damages or defects caused by injuries. Traditional tissue transplants have limitations like limited tissue availability, potential risk of immune rejection and disease transmission. The use of biomaterials composed of synthetic polymers as dura substitutes offers a promising approach to overcome these limitations to replace and treat damaged dura mater. Potential biocompatible porous scaffolds still need to be developed to minimize the risks of immune response and disease transmission, while also ensuring effective cell migration and cell ingrowth in three dimension. The aim of the present study was to develop a poly(L-lactide-co-D,L-lactide) (P(L-D,L)LA) foam with an optimal pore size for dura mater substitution, investigate its morphological characteristics, and evaluate its potential for dura mater regeneration by assessing the spreading and growth of meningeal cells within it through in vitro studies. Foams were produced by lyophilization using different concentrations of P(L-D,L)LA solution. A GMP-grade P(L-D,L)LA, suitable for medical device applications, was used in this study. Morphological analysis was performed using scanning electron microscopy, and porosity of the foams was studied with mercury porosimetry. In in vitro studies, meningeal cells were seeded onto the polymeric foams, and their behavior and proliferation in these scaffolds were investigated with cytoskeleton and nucleus staining, and colorimetric cell proliferation assay, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy results showed that the foams prepared with 2.5% and 3% polymer solutions displayed good structural integrity and convenient interconnectivity, with pore sizes ranging from 80 to 150 µm. However, the foams prepared with 2% and 4% polymer solution demonstrated poor structural integrity and low interconnectivity, respectively. In vitro studies showed that the foams prepared with 2.5% and 3% polymer solutions served effectively as scaffolds for meningeal cells, and the cells attached, spread and homogeneously distributed. In addition, the cells proliferated and increased in number over time within these polymeric scaffolds. These findings suggest that the foams produced with 2.5% and especially 3% P(L-D,L)LA polymer solutions could effectively serve as a suitable substitute for the dura mater, providing an appropriate environment for cell ingrowth and tissue integration. This indicates that the developed foam could be a promising treatment for dura mater damage or defects, with the potential approach to promote regeneration in future in vivo and clinical studies.

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation as a natural means to delay menopause.

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation (OTCT) offers hope for preserving fertility and endocrine functions in patients undergoing gonadotoxic treatments. Advancements in techniques for the procedure have transformed OTCT from an experimental procedure into a viable option. There is a growing interest in utilizing OTCT to delay menopause and alleviate associated health issues. Menopausal transition affects women globally, leading to symptoms and long- term health risks. OTCT has the potential to restore endocrine functions, reducing menopause-related symptoms while mitigating health consequences such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases. Although the use of OTCT for delaying menopause is not clinically proven, the discussion around shows potential for future utilization. In essence, the remarkable advancements in OTCT have bestowed upon us the ability to safeguard fertility and sustain the delicate endocrine functions of the ovaries. However, it is the tantalizing prospect of utilizing this technique to postpone menopause and alleviate its associated symptoms that truly captivates the imagination. Further research is imperative to substantiate the clinical efficacy of OTCT; nonetheless, its potential in menopausal therapy is both promising and warrants comprehensive exploration. This review highlights advancements and the feasibility of OTCT to postpone menopause as an alternative approach to currently used conventional menopause therapy methods.