Biology subjects

Franko, R.

Publications and source records attributed to Franko, R..

3 recordsLinked to original sources

bioRxiv2024

Developing and characterising decellularized extracellular matrix hydrogels to bio-fabricate female reproductive tissues

This study investigated the development and characterization of decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) hydrogels tailored for the bio-fabrication of female reproductive tissues, specifically targeting cortex, endometrium, medulla, and oviduct tissues. We aimed to evaluate the cytocompatibility, biomechanical properties, and overall efficacy of these dECMs in promoting cell viability, proliferation, and differentiation. Our findings revealed that these dECMs exhibited high biocompatibility with embryo development and cell viability, supporting micro vascularization and cellular differentiation without the need for external growth factors. These hydrogels displayed biomechanical properties that closely mimicked native tissues, which was vital for maintaining their functional integrity and supporting cellular activities. The printability assessments showed that dECMs, particularly those from cortex tissues, achieved high precision in replicating the intended structures, though challenges such as low porosity remained. The bioprinted constructs demonstrated robust cell growth, with over 97% viability observed by day 7, indicating their suitability for cell culture. This work represented a significant advancement in reproductive tissue bio-fabrication, demonstrating the potential of dECM-based hydrogels in creating structurally and functionally viable tissue constructs. By tailoring each dECM to match the unique biomechanical properties of different tissues, we paved the way for more effective and reliable applications in reproductive medicine and tissue engineering. HighlightsO_LIDeveloped decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) bio-inks for bio-fabrication of female reproductive tissues. C_LIO_LIDemonstrated high biocompatibility with embryo development and cell viability. C_LIO_LIAchieved accurate bioprinting, maintaining structural integrity. C_LIO_LIPromoted micro vascularization and cell differentiation without added growth factors. C_LI

bioengineering↗

bioRxiv2023

Mechanical Properties of Native and Decellularized Reproductive Tissues: Insights for Tissue Engineering Strategies

Understanding the mechanical properties and porosity of reproductive tissues is vital for regenerative medicine in tissue engineering. This study investigated the changes in Youngs modulus (YM), storage modulus (E'), loss modulus (E''), and porosity of native and decellularized bovine reproductive tissues during the estrous cycle. Testis tunica albuginea had significantly higher YM, E', and E'' than the inner testis, indicating greater stiffness and viscoelasticity. Endometrium showed no distinct differences in YM, E', or E' across the estrous cycle or between horns. Ovaries exhibited significant variations in YM, E', E'', and porosity, with higher YM and E' in the ipsilateral cortex and medulla during the luteal phase. Decellularized ovarian tissues displayed increased porosity. The oviduct displayed no significant differences in YM or E' in the isthmus, but the contralateral ampulla had reduced YM and E' in the luteal phase. These findings offer valuable insights into the dynamic mechanical properties and porosity of reproductive tissues, facilitating the development of biomimetic scaffolds for tissue engineering applications.

bioengineering↗

bioRxiv2022

Microplastics are present in follicular fluid and compromise gamete function in vitro: Is the Anthropocene throw-away society throwing away fertility?

The past several decades have seen alarming declines in the reproductive health of humans, animals and plants. While humans have introduced numerous pollutants that can impair reproductive systems (such as well-documented endocrine disruptors), the potential for microplastics (MPs) to be contributing to the widespread declines in fertility is particularly noteworthy. Over the same timespan that declines in fertility began to be documented, there has been a correlated shift towards a "throw-away society" that is characterised by the excessive consumption of single-use plastic products and a concomitant accumulation of MPs pollution. Studies are showing that MPs can impair fertility, but data have been limited to rodents that were force-fed hundreds of thousands of times more plastics than they would be exposed in the environment. As a first step to link in vitro health effects with in vivo environmental exposure, we quantified microplastics in the follicular fluid of women and domestic cows. We found that the concentrations of polystyrene microplastics that naturally occurred in follicular fluid were sufficient to compromise the maturation of bovine oocytes in vitro. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that microplastics may also be contributing to the widespread declines in fertility that have been occurring over recent Anthropocene decades.

developmental biology↗