Presenting on "Functional Tunable Biomimetics for Engineering of Ovarian Tissue"

Ariella Shikanov, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Biomedical Engineering and Associate Professor, Macromolecular Science and Engineering at University of Michigan, will speak at 10:00 CST on Thursday, September 30, 2021. This seminar will be virtual. Please register by clicking here.

Abstract: Our current research focuses on treatment solutions for premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), which is a common complication of cytotoxic treatments due to extreme ovarian chemo- and radiation sensitivity. POI causes sterility and loss of ovarian endocrine function leading to premature osteopenia, muscle wasting, and accelerated cardiovascular diseases. The unique challenges associated with fertility preservation in females are rooted primarily in limited and non-renewable ovarian reserves. None of the options for fertility preservation, that are clinically available can either restore the lost ovarian endocrine function or are suitable for children and young adults. In our laboratory we aim to create biomimetic constructs that direct tissue regeneration and restore biological function by combining approaches from engineering, materials, chemistry and life sciences. To achieve this, we design biomaterial-based matrices that support the development of ovarian follicles cultured in vitro or transplanted in vivo. 

Host: Dr. Lori Setton, Washington University in St. Louis