A new method for treating male infertility

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in seven men of reproductive age suffers from infertility. Researchers at the University of California (San Diego, USA) have proposed an innovative method for culturing spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) in the laboratory. This method opens new perspectives for the therapy of male infertility and could represent a breakthrough in reproductive medicine. It is currently in the preclinical research stage with trials on animal models to evaluate its efficacy and safety. Clinical trials on volunteers are expected to begin in the coming years, marking an important step towards its widespread use in medical practice.

What are spermatogonial stem cells?

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) are a type of stem cell that underlies the process of spermatogenesis in men. They are the precursor cells of sperm. These cells are extracted from a man's testes and cultured in the laboratory until they reach the stage of mature sperm. Mature sperm can then be used for in vitro fertilization (IVF).

As part of IVF, mature sperm are brought into contact with eggs in the laboratory for fertilization. The resulting embryos are then cultured in a special medium until the blastocyst stage, after which one or more embryos are transferred into the woman's uterine cavity for further development of the pregnancy.

Breakthrough in the identification and culture of SSC

Until recently, identifying spermatogonial stem cells among other cells in the testes posed significant challenges. Researchers at the University of California applied single-cell RNA sequencing, allowing them to accurately identify the cell type and simplify the process of isolating these cells.

Furthermore, the researchers developed a reliable method for culturing SSC in the laboratory. This method involves creating an optimal medium for the growth and development of the cells up to the stage of mature sperm. This medium contains specially selected nutrients to maintain the metabolic activity of the cells, as well as regulated conditions of temperature (around 37°C), pH level, and oxygen concentration, mimicking the natural testicular microenvironment. Additionally, growth factors and hormones are used to promote the differentiation and maturation of SSC. The results of these experiments are published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Prospects for SSC therapy

According to researchers, spermatogonial stem cells have a high capacity for rapid division and maturation, opening new prospects in the treatment of male infertility. SSC therapy gives men, even those over 65 years old, the chance to become fathers, which was previously difficult due to age-related fertility decline.

The introduction of this technique into clinical practice could radically change the approach to treating male sterility, especially in cases where traditional methods are ineffective. Given the high potential of this technology, future research will focus on improving the culture process and confirming its safety for widespread use.

Alternative methods in case of SSC therapy failure

If SSC therapy fails and conception remains impossible, couples may be offered in vitro fertilization (IVF) using donor sperm. This approach provides an additional chance for successful conception and the birth of a healthy child. According to the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), the success rate of IVF with donor sperm averages 50 to 60% per cycle, making it one of the most effective methods for couples facing male infertility issues.

The development of therapies based on spermatogonial stem cells represents an important step in the field of reproductive medicine. This discovery not only expands the possibilities for treating male infertility but also offers hope to millions of men worldwide. Modern technology, combined with traditional methods such as IVF with donor sperm, provides couples with a wide range of solutions to realize their dream of parenthood.