Biology subjects

Ferronato, G.

Publications and source records attributed to Ferronato, G..

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

Microplastics are detected in bull and dog sperm and polystyrene microparticles impair sperm fertilization

The alarming increase in global infertility rates has coincided with the pervasive accumulation of microplastics (MPs) resulting from the poor management of plastic waste. This concerning trend is particularly troubling because only 10% of male infertility cases can be attributed to identifiable causes, leaving a significant knowledge gap in our understanding of their underlying factors. To bridge this critical gap, it is important to explore the connection between the accumulation of MPs and the observed decline in male fertility. Here, the presence of microplastics in reproductive fluids from bulls and dogs was assessed and used as baseline concentrations for bull sperm exposure. Bovine epididymal sperm (ES) presented a mean of 72.5 MP particles mL-1 (0.3691 g mL-1) while canine seminal plasma had an average of 35.4 MP particles mL-1 (0.0066 g mL-1). Bovine sperm was exposed to three different concentrations of a mixture of 1.1, 0.5, and 0.3 {micro}m polystyrene (PS) beads: (1) 0.7 g mL-1, blood concentration of PS in cows (bPS); (2) 0.37 g mL-1, concentration of total MPs in ES (esMP); and (3) 0.026 g mL-1, concentration of PS in ES (esPS). All sperm samples incubated with PS exhibited reduced motility compared with the CT at 0.5 h. However, PS exposure did not affect acrosome or induced oxidative stress. When used for in vitro fertilization, the sperm exposed to PS had decreased blastocyst rates, in addition to inducing ROS formation and apoptosis on resulting embryos. By employing realistic exposure concentrations, this research sought to shed light on the comprehensive impact of MPs on bovine sperm and the quality of resulting embryos, providing the first evidence of MPs in bovine and dog sperm and demonstrating the detrimental effect of PS MPs on sperm motility and functionality. Graphical Abstract O_FIG O_LINKSMALLFIG WIDTH=200 HEIGHT=80 SRC="FIGDIR/small/571802v1_ufig1.gif" ALT="Figure 1"> View larger version (25K): org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@5871acorg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@8ee9f2org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@a1416borg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@cde261_HPS_FORMAT_FIGEXP M_FIG C_FIG HighlightsO_LIMicroplastics were found across the most diverse range of environments and their presence have been shown to affect reproductive parameters within different species. C_LIO_LITrue-to-life concentrations of exposure were used to assess the potential effects of polystyrene in sperm parameters and fertilization. C_LIO_LIPolystyrene microplastics attach to sperm and decrease motility, also reducing sperm functionality as seen by decreased blastocyst rate and increased oxidative stress in embryos. C_LI

developmental biology↗

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↗