Abstract
In addition to already standardly applied procedures such as embryo-, oocyte- or ovarian tissue-cryopreservation, emerging techniques like fertoprotective adjuvant agents, in vitro grown oocytes or the creation of an artificial ovary are intensively researched in order to be able to provide solutions for every patient or animal in need of assisted reproductive help. Some of these strategies have since been shown to be effective, while others have the potential to provide new fertility preservation options, but they also each have their shortcomings. The drawbacks have led scientists and clinicians to search for alternative and more robust methods. The most promising approach is based on stem cells and would provide an alternative source of gametes for research as well as for infertility treatment or fertility preservation. Assisted reproductive techniques developed until now always rely on a certain supply of own follicles/oocytes. The specific characteristics of stem cells - undifferentiated cells able to transform into differentiated cells - open doors to produce so-called 'artificial' or in vitro created gametes, which can provide solutions exactly for those individuals lacking own oocytes. Therefore, this project focusses on developing techniques to isolate ovarian stem cells and to subsequently use those cells to generate female gametes or oocytes. The pig will be used as an animal model to bridge the gap between results obtained in mice and applications in human and endangered species.
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