Scientists at Northwestern University in Illinois (United States) have developed an artificial skeleton mouse ovaries of an elastic porous matrix, the structure of which allows the cells to grow and suitable for surgical implantation.

Filling the frame of ovarian follicles and the hormone-producing cells, the scientists waited until they connect to the matrix, and then put them into the body of the sterilized mice. The porous structure of the artificial ovary allowed the vessels grow rapidly, and after the hormonal stimulation of the ovaries in the beginning of the menstrual cycle, hormones began to be developed and mature follicles.

Artificial ovary, printed on of 3D-printers, mice were allowed to conceive, bear and bring up his offspring.

Scientists hope to use this technique for the treatment of infertility in women suffering from congenital ovarian failure or side effects of cancer treatment, but it is necessary to develop a material that is compatible with the human body.