Stem cell based strategies to preserve fertility in boys and men.

To date, existing experimental models of spermatogenesis often lack the versatility to study the fundamental processes of spermatogenesis necessary to develop clinically relevant systems.The studies in this research project will make use of a unique collection of human testicular tissue samples covering all developmental time points, as well as clinical data obtained from participating clinical units.

The obtained information will serve for better counselling of patients and their families in the near future.

In addition to these short-term outcomes, experiments focusing on the establishment of strategies to rescue fertility in these patients, either by in vitro generated sperm or by the protection of the spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) population, will ensure a long-term outcome for patients who already have testicular tissue cryopreserved for future fertility preservation.To achieve this goal, the projects presented in the current proposal aim to a) define the patient group at highest risk of infertility; b) explore experimental models to maintain SSCs in culture as a first step to generate sperm in vitro and c) identify specific pathways and factors necessary to protect the SSC population.

Through these projects, we aim to expand current knowledge in the field of male fertility and its protection.

This understanding is necessary for the development of clinically translational approaches for fertility preservation in boys and men at risk of infertility.