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Updated: Jun 19, 2025
Orthotopic Ovarian Transplantation Procedures to Investigate the Life- and Health-span Influence of Ovarian Senescence in Female Mice
Published on: February 12, 2018
Adipose-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation Improves Ovarian Function and Oocyte Quality in Aged Mice
Toyofumi Hirakawa1, Fusanori Yotsumoto2, Shiori Imi2
1Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan; thira@fukuoka-u.ac.jp.
Background/Aim:
Age-related decline in the number of ovulations and ovum quality are major causes of female infertility, and stem cells have been reported to be effective in tissue regeneration. However, current therapeutic modalities are inadequate. This study investigated the effects of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) on ovarian functions in aged mice.
Materials And Methods:
Following the characterization of ASCs using flow cytometry, the effects of ASCs on the number of ovulations, fertilization rate, and blastocyst-formation rate were investigated. In addition, the number of ovarian follicles and serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels were examined. ASCs marked with Kusabira Orange were used to examine the location after cell administration. The quality of ovulated oocytes was analyzed using next-generation RNA sequencing.
Results:
ASCs showed characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells and were distributed to various organs, including the ovarian stroma. The transplantation resulted in increased number of oocytes and ovulation in the ovaries and increased AMH values. Genetic analysis revealed improved oocyte quality and increased fertilization and blastocyst-formation rates.
Conclusion:
ASC therapy may be effective in improving fertility in older women.
