Using carbohydrate-based polymers to facilitate testicular regeneration

Biol Cell. 2024 Aug;116(8):e2400013. doi: 10.1111/boc.202400013. Epub 2024 Jun 16.

Abstract

Male infertility is a significant global issue affecting 60-80 million people, with 40%-50% of cases linked to male issues. Exposure to radiation, drugs, sickness, the environment, and oxidative stress may result in testicular degeneration. Carbohydrate-based polymers (CBPs) restore testis differentiation and downregulate apoptosis genes. CBP has biodegradability, low cost, and wide availability, but is at risk of contamination and variations. CBP shows promise in wound healing, but more research is required before implementation in healthcare. Herein, we discuss the recent advances in engineering applications of CBP employed as scaffolds, drug delivery systems, immunomodulation, and stem cell therapy for testicular regeneration. Moreover, we emphasize the promising challenges warranted for future perspectives.

Keywords: carbohydrate‐based polymers; drug delivery systems; immunomodulation; stem cell therapy; testicular regeneration.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carbohydrates / chemistry
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Polymers* / chemistry
  • Regeneration
  • Testis*
  • Tissue Engineering / methods
  • Tissue Scaffolds / chemistry

Substances

  • Polymers
  • Carbohydrates