Title : Stem cell transplantation for cancer therapy-induced infertility
Abstract:
Introduction: Spermatogonial stem cell transplantation (SSCT) offers a promising strategy to restore fertility in childhood cancer survivors. Chemotherapy agents like busulfan and cadmium cause oxidative damage, which impairs spermatogenesis. Metformin, known for its antioxidant properties, may help protect against this damage and improve fertility outcomes.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of metformin against oxidative stress caused by busulfan and cadmium, and to examine its role in enhancing spermatogenesis restoration following SSCT.
Materials and Methods: We used a long-term infertility mouse model induced by busulfan and cadmium treatment. Cryopreserved spermatogonial stem cells were transplanted into three groups: one received SSCT alone, another received SSCT combined with metformin, and a control group was untreated. Flow cytometry measured reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, while immunofluorescence assessed markers of cell proliferation and differentiation.
Results: Our findings showed that metformin significantly reduced ROS production in the transplanted group. Additionally, the group receiving SSCT with metformin showed significantly higher expression of proliferation and differentiation markers compared to SSCT alone.
Conclusion: Combining metformin with spermatogonial stem cell transplantation significantly enhances spermatogenesis and improves the engraftment of transplanted cells. This combined approach has strong potential for clinical use in restoring fertility, especially in childhood cancer survivors.
