In Vitro Ovarian Model Systems

There are a number of detrimental exposures that are known to cause reproductive toxicity, and numerous others that are also likely to affect the reproductive system. In order to identify possible reproductive toxicants and study the mechanism(s) of action of those that are known, in vitro techniques have been and will continue to be important. This article will describe the currently available in vitro methods for examining ovarian toxicity. Examples will be given on how ovarian tissue cultures, cultures of individual ovarian follicles, and cell lines have been used to study exposures that affect the normal functioning of the ovary. The advantages and disadvantages of each technique will be discussed. Results that provide insight into the mechanisms of action of certain ovarian toxicants will be described to demonstrate the utility of each method.