Effects of varying tissue sizes on the efficiency of baboon ovarian tissue vitrification

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to detect the effects of varying tissue sizes on the efficiency of baboon ovarian tissue vitrification.

Study design: The percentages of morphologically normal primordial follicles and the follicles expressing bax protein in ovarian tissues after vitrification-warming were measured. Besides, the 17-β estradiol levels in the culture supernatants were measured.

Results: The percentages of morphologically normal primordial follicles in vitrified-warmed ovarian tissues slicing in 0.5-1.5mm in length and wide, and 1.0mm in thickness were significantly higher than those slicing in 2.0mm in length and wide, and 1.0mm in thickness. Moreover, the follicles expressing bax protein in vitrified-warmed ovarian tissues slicing in 0.5-1.5mm in length and wide, and 1.0mm in thickness were significantly lower than those slicing in 2.0mm in length and wide, and 1.0mm in thickness. The 17-β estradiol levels in the culture supernatants slicing in 1.0-1.5mm in length and wide, and 1.0mm in thickness were significantly higher than those slicing in 0.5mm or 2.0mm in length and wide, and 1.0mm in thickness.

Conclusions: Cortex piece slicing in 1.0-1.5mm in length and wide, and 1.0mm in thickness is suitable for baboon ovarian vitrification.

Keywords: Baboon; Ovarian tissue; Size; Vitrification.