Emerging biomaterials for reproductive medicine

Abstract

Reproduction is the most important event for the continuation of life. Unfortunately, infertility is a widespread problem. Recently, biomaterials have been widely used in reproductive biology, including tissue engineering, regenerative medicine and contraception. In this review, we summarize the research progress of biomaterials applied in follicle culture, artificial ovary, tissue engineering, and contraception. We first introduce the applications and advantages of different biomaterials in follicle culture and artificial ovary. Then, we summarize the biomaterials for tissue engineering in reproductive biology. Also, we introduce the applications of biomaterials for contraception. Besides, some emerging technologies are also introduced, such as microfluidic chip, organ chip, 3D printing, electrostatic spinning and stem cell therapy in the fundamental research and clinical application. We believe that this review will promote the interdisciplinary communication between biomaterial science and reproductive biology.