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Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics

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01-12-2011 | Fertility Preservation

Impact of freezing and thawing of human ovarian tissue on follicular growth after long-term xenotransplantation

Authors: Christiani A. Amorim, Anu David, Marie-Madeleine Dolmans, Alessandra Camboni, Jacques Donnez, Anne Van Langendonckt

Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics | Issue 12/2011

Abstract

Purpose

To assess follicular growth after xenografting in order to understand how freezing and/or grafting may affect follicular development.

Methods

Human ovarian biopsies were used for fresh and frozen-thawed xenografting to SCID mice. After xenotransplantation, follicular morphology and proportion, oocyte and follicle diameter, and quantitative and qualitative parameters of antral follicles were analyzed.

Results

The proportion of growing follicles was significantly higher in grafted than non-grafted ovarian tissue. Follicular growth to the antral stage was observed and there was no significant difference in oocyte or follicle diameter in fresh or frozen-thawed grafts. Although no significant difference was observed in antral area or zona pellucida thickness, the theca layer in antral follicles from frozen-thawed grafted tissue was found to be significantly thinner than in fresh grafts.

Conclusion

Antral follicles obtained after grafting of frozen-thawed human ovarian tissue showed a thinner theca cell layer compared to those from fresh grafts, which could affect follicular development and function. Further studies are nevertheless warranted to confirm the identity of theca cells and assess if they retain the ability to respond to luteinizing hormone and produce androgens.

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Title: Impact of freezing and thawing of human ovarian tissue on follicular growth after long-term xenotransplantation
Authors: Christiani A. Amorim
Anu David
Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
Alessandra Camboni
Jacques Donnez
Anne Van Langendonckt
Publication date: 01-12-2011
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics / Issue 12/2011
Print ISSN: 1058-0468
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7330
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-011-9672-z

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Impact of freezing and thawing of human ovarian tissue on follicular growth after long-term xenotransplantation

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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