Emerging topics in microvascular research: Advancing our understanding by interdisciplinary exploration

Revolutionizing the female reproductive system research using microfluidic chip platform

Comprehensively understanding the female reproductive system is crucial for safeguarding fertility and preventing diseases concerning women's health. With the capacity to simulate the intricate physio- and patho-conditions, and provide diagnostic platforms, microfluidic chips have fundamentally transformed the knowledge and management of female reproductive health, which will ultimately promote the development of more effective assisted reproductive technologies, treatments, and drug screening approaches. This review elucidates diverse microfluidic systems in mimicking the ovary, fallopian tube, uterus, placenta and cervix, and we delve into the culture of follicles and oocytes, gametes' manipulation, cryopreservation, and permeability especially. We investigate the role of microfluidics in endometriosis and hysteromyoma, and explore their applications in ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer and cervical cancer. At last, the current status of assisted reproductive technology and integrated microfluidic devices are introduced briefly. Through delineating the multifarious advantages and challenges of the microfluidic technology, we chart a definitive course for future research in the woman health field. As the microfluidic technology continues to evolve and advance, it holds great promise for revolutionizing the diagnosis and treatment of female reproductive health issues, thus propelling us into a future where we can ultimately optimize the overall wellbeing and health of women everywhere.

Emerging topics in microvascular research: Advancing our understanding by interdisciplinary exploration

Historically, major advances in microvascular research have been made by integrating physiology and bioengineering approaches. This Special Topics Issue focuses on providing a spotlight on emerging areas of microvascular research, showcasing how interdisciplinary collaborations and application of novel techniques can impact our understanding of tissue‐specific microvascular remodeling by integrating cell behaviors across scales. The authors in this issue investigate pericyte physiology, perturbations to uteroplacental blood flow, bone microvascular alterations in aging, molecular markers of revascularization, and microfluidic devices to mimic the lymphatic system. The articles highlight the continued importance of expanding our understanding of the microvascular system in health, and disease extends microvascular boundaries in the face of current paradigms, and illustrates how emerging leaders in the field are creating new scientific niches.