Development of a 3D toroidal culture model using bovine oviductal cells

• Grant number: 25/24813-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: December 01, 2025
• End date: November 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine - Animal Reproduction
• Principal Investigator: Marcella Pecora Milazzotto
• Grantee: Evelyn da Conceição Franco
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas (CCNH). Universidade Federal do ABC (UFABC). Santo André , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 25/13822-6 - Development of a 3D toroidal culture model using bovine oviductal cells., AP.R

Abstract

The bovine oviduct is a specialized organ crucial for fertilization and early embryonic development, composed of epithelial and stromal cells organized into functionally distinct regions: the infundibulum, ampulla, and isthmus. The epithelial cells, both ciliated and secretory, perform functions such as secretion and transport, while stromal cells provide structural support. Although less polarized, stromal cells contribute to tissue remodeling and epithelial interactions. The complexity of this architecture makes its reproduction in vitro challenging, particularly in two-dimensional (2D) cultures, which fail to adequately replicate morphology, polarity, and cell-cell interactions. Three-dimensional (3D) models, such as spheroids and organoids, are more promising but face limitations such as central necrosis and inefficient nutrient exchange. Moreover, they enable the study of metabolic gradients and internal mechanical forces that influence cellular differentiation and morphogenesis. This project proposes a 3D toroidal model using bovine oviductal cells, designed to promote cell polarization and nutrient transport, aiming for a tissue organization that more closely resembles in vivo conditions. The methodology involves the design and printing of toroidal molds using photosensitive resin, cell culture within agarose molds, and subsequent structural and functional analyses of the model.