Exploring stem cell technology: Pioneering new pathways for female fertility preservation and restoration

Reprod Biol. 2024 Dec;24(4):100958. doi: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100958. Epub 2024 Oct 10.

Abstract

The fertility of women is crucial for the well-being of individuals and families. However, various factors such as chemotherapy, lifestyle changes, among others, may lead to a decline in female fertility, thus emphasizing the significance of preserving and restoring fertility. Stem cells, with their unique capacity for self-renewal and pluripotent differentiation, have made significant strides in areas such as ovarian tissue cryopreservation, in vitro culture of frozen-thawed ovarian tissue, and construction of ovarian-like organs. This review aims to summarize the latest findings in these fields, highlighting the pivotal role, mechanisms, and future prospects of stem cell technology in preserving and restoring female fertility. Additionally, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration is underscored, as personalized stem cell therapy regimens tailored through interdisciplinary cooperation between reproductive medicine and stem cell fields hold promise in providing reliable solutions for the preservation and restoration of female fertility.

Keywords: Female fertility preservation; Ovarian organoids; Ovarian tissue cryopreservation; Stem cells; in vitro culture of ovarian tissue.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cryopreservation* / methods
  • Female
  • Fertility Preservation* / methods
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Female* / therapy
  • Ovary / physiology
  • Stem Cell Transplantation / methods
  • Stem Cells / physiology