Miniature female reproductive system, that fits in palm of hand, may help drug testing

Representational image

New Delhi: Scientists have developed a miniature female reproductive system that fits in the palm of the hand, that could help test drugs for safety and effectiveness in women.

The new 3D technology - called EVATAR - is made with human tissue and will enable scientists to conduct much-needed testing of new drugs for safety and effectiveness on the female reproductive system.

EVATAR also will help scientists understand diseases of the female reproductive tract such as endometriosis, fibroids (which affect up to 80 per cent of women), cancer and infertility.

The ultimate goal is to use stem cells of an individual patient and create a personalised model of their reproductive system.

EVATAR, which resembles a small cube, contains 3D models of ovaries, fallopian tubes, the uterus, cervix, vagina and liver with special fluid pumping through all of them that performs the function of blood.

The organ models are able to communicate with each other via secreted substances, including hormones, to closely resemble how they all work together in the body.The organ models are able to communicate with each other via secreted substances, including hormones, to closely resemble how they all work together in the body.

(With PTI inputs)