Bioengineering approaches for the endometrial research and application

Abstract

The endometrium undergoes a series of precise monthly changes under the regulation of dynamic levels of ovarian hormones that are characterized by repeated shedding and subsequent regeneration without scarring. This provides the potential for wound healing during endometrial injuries. Bioengineering materials highlight the faithful replication of constitutive cells and the extracellular matrix that simulates the physical and biomechanical properties of the endometrium to a larger extent. Significant progress has been made in this field, and functional endometrial tissue bioengineering allows an in-depth investigation of regulatory factors for endometrial and myometrial defects in vitro and provides highly therapeutic methods to alleviate obstetric and gynecological complications. However, much remains to be learned about the latest progress in the application of bioengineering technologies to the human endometrium. Here, we summarize the existing developments in biomaterials and bioengineering models for endometrial regeneration and improving the female reproductive potential.

Graphical abstract

Highlights

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  Endometrial organoids gain the capability of self-renewal and differentiation.

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  Endometrial microfluidics emphasize the endocrine and paracrine effects.

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  Hydrogels loaded with drugs are excellent tools for endometrial repair.

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  Endometrial scaffolds maintain the survival of transplanted SCs.