Alginate Biomimetic Hydrogel: A Novel Matrix for the Preservation of Encapsulated Ovarian Tissue in an Animal Model; [هیدروژل آلژینات بایومیمتیک بستری نوین برای نگهداری بافت تخمدان انکپسوله شده در مدلحیوانی] Publisher



Sobhani K ; Farzinpour A ; Andrade Amorim C ; Amidi F
Source: Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility Published:2025

Abstract

Introduction: Ovarian tissue cryopreservation, despite its importance in fertility preservation, often causes structural damage and reduces follicle survival. These damages are mainly attributed to osmotic and mechanical stresses as well as changes in the tissue microenvironment. Alginate hydrogel, due to its biocompatibility and tunable mechanical properties, has emerged as a potential protective system for ovarian tissue encapsulation. The present study was conducted with aim to investigate the effect of encapsulating ovarian tissue in alginate hydrogel on mitigating damage induced by the freeze-thaw process. Methods: Alginate hydrogel composed of alginate, calcium carbonate (CaCO3), and glucono-8-lactone (GDL) was designed using a response surface methodology (RSM) to achieve a storage modulus and gelation time similar to those of native tissue. Ovarian tissue from prepubertal sheep was encapsulated, subjected to slow freezing, and cultured for 24 hours post-thaw. Histological evaluations included counting the density of primordial and primary follicles, as well as assessing stromal cells and the extracellular matrix. Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism (version 9) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post-hoc tests. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The density of primordial and primary follicles in the encapsulated group was significantly higher than in the frozen group (p<0.05). Stromal cell health and extracellular matrix integrity were better preserved in the hydrogel group (p<0.001). The hydrogel exhibited a storage modulus of approximately 1,750 Pa and a gelation time of around 30 minutes, simulating the mechanical properties of native tissue. Conclusion: Encapsulation of ovarian tissue in alginate hydrogel reduces freeze-thaw-induced damage and improves follicle survival and stromal structure. This approach offers a novel strategy for fertility preservation. © 2025, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved.