In Vitro Spermatogenesis: How Far from Clinical Application?

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Developmental biology
• Cell biology

Background:

• Male infertility affects 7% of men, with 10% being azoospermic.
• Current treatments like micro-TESE and ICSI benefit many, but not all infertile men.
• In vitro spermatogenesis could help patients with non-obstructive azoospermia, spermatogenic arrest, and cancer survivors with cryopreserved testicular tissue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and summarize 50 years of research on in vitro spermatogenesis in mammalian species.
• To evaluate the progress and challenges in achieving in vitro spermatogenesis.
• To assess the potential for clinical translation of in vitro spermatogenesis models.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies on in vitro spermatogenesis in mammals.
• Analysis of various experimental assays and approaches, including 2D and 3D cell culture systems.
• Focus on advancements in murine and nonhuman primate models.

Main Results:

• A wide range of experimental methods have been developed for in vitro spermatogenesis.
• Significant progress has been made, particularly in murine and nonhuman primate models.
• Current models show promise for future clinical applications.

Conclusions:

• In vitro spermatogenesis holds significant potential for treating male infertility.
• Advances in mammalian models are crucial for developing human clinical applications.
• Further research is needed to translate these findings into effective clinical therapies.