Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 3, 2026
Germ Cell Transplantation and Testis Tissue Xenografting in Mice
Published on: February 6, 2012
Germ cell transplantation into X-irradiated monkey testes
S Schlatt1, L Foppiani, C Rolf
1Institute of Reproductive Medicine of the University, Münster, Germany. schlats@uni-muenster.de
Background:
An intense debate is ongoing regarding options for fertility protection in oncological patients. Germ cell transplantation has been applied to restore mouse spermatogenesis. Here, an attempt to apply autologous germ cell transplantation to a primate animal model is described.
Methods:
Five adult male cynomolgus monkeys were biopsied to retrieve and cryopreserve germ cells before both testes were irradiated (dose 2 Gy). Six weeks later, each monkey received an infusion of its own cell suspension into the right testis, while the left testes were infused with saline. Testis size, sperm counts and serum concentrations of inhibin, FSH and testosterone were analysed weekly for 9 months. Spermatogenic recovery was determined histologically at the end of the study.
Results:
In four monkeys, the germ cell-infused right testes showed a slight to moderate increase in the rate of regrowth in comparison with the left testes. In two monkeys the right testis proceeded to recover more prominently, resulting in larger right testis volumes and better or full spermatogenic recovery at the study end. Restoration of spermatogenesis occurred as an all-or-nothing event. Inhibin B concentrations increased, while FSH and testosterone concentrations decreased with testicular regrowth. Sperm counts did not recover.
Conclusions:
The present study demonstrates the immaturity and complexity of germ cell transplantation as a clinical approach.
Insights
Autologous germ cell transplantation in primates showed variable success in restoring spermatogenesis after radiation. While some testes showed regrowth and recovery, it was an all-or-nothing event, indicating complexity for clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Oncology
- Primate Models
Background:
- Fertility preservation is a critical concern for cancer patients.
- Germ cell transplantation has shown promise in restoring spermatogenesis in mice.
- This study explores germ cell transplantation in a primate model.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of autologous germ cell transplantation for fertility preservation in a primate model.
- To evaluate the impact of germ cell transplantation on testicular recovery after irradiation.
Main Methods:
- Adult male cynomolgus monkeys underwent testicular irradiation (2 Gy).
- Autologous germ cells were cryopreserved, then infused into one testis.
- Testis volume, sperm counts, hormone levels, and histology were monitored for 9 months.
Main Results:
- Four out of five monkeys showed some regrowth in the transplanted testes.
- Two monkeys experienced significant recovery, with larger testes and improved spermatogenesis.
- Spermatogenesis recovery was an 'all-or-nothing' phenomenon; sperm counts did not recover.
Conclusions:
- Germ cell transplantation in primates is complex and currently immature for clinical application.
- Variable outcomes highlight the challenges in achieving consistent spermatogenic restoration.
