A joint research by Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and McCormick School of Engineering have managed to produce working mouse ovaries using a 3d printer.
Or rather, they used a 3d printer to print a gelatinous mold, about 2mm in diameter with a chicken fence structure. In this, they placed several genetically engineered mouse follicles. The follicles adhered to the mold, and grew support cells that spread over the mold. After 4 days the researchers implanted the mold in a mouse whose ovaries had been surgically removed. The mouse started ovulating not long after, and became pregnant, although the litter size was below average. After giving birth, milk production started as it should, and the mouse pups proved to be fertile themselves.
The researchers inserted fluorescence genes into the follicle cells. When the offspring proved to have fluorescent cells, they were certain that they were produced by the artificial ovaries, and not by any residue from the original ovaries.
They hope the technique will prove succesful in humans as well. Women who have had chemotherapy often suffer from ovary damage, casuing them to become infertile. The new technique could help them grow new ovaries.
The gel used to create the 3d printer mold dissolves naturally after implantation, leaving just the new ovaries in place.
http://www.volkskrant.nl/wetenschap/werkende-muizeneierstokken-met-3d-printer-gemaakt-op-termijn-wellicht-ook-voor-mensen~a4495193/tldr; order your 3d printed ovaries now