Stem Cell Transplant Might Restore Sperm
Stem Cell Transplant Might Restore Sperm
Stem cell transplant might restore sperm
Source: scrapetv.com
“Boys left infertile by childhood cancer treatment may one day be able to produce healthy sperm by using stored stem cells, monkey research suggests.”
Source: www.bbc.co.uk
Stem cells have been in debate since a very long time. Lots of ethical issues have been risen, lots of hope has been given since the concept of stem cells came into existence. Stem cell research reached another milestone by being able to create sperms that were able to fertilize eggs. All those boys who may need to go through chemotherapy in the prepubescent stage without getting a chance to store their sperms for fertility options later on. However, sperm stem cells could be extracted and frozen which could be used later to give them back their fertility.
The research and concept seems promising without much hassle. The trials were done on monkeys;12 adult monkeys and 5 prepubescent monkeys were selected and had their stem cells extracted which were responsible for sperm growth.
These monkeys were then given chemotherapy which left them infertile. After further tests to confirm the infertility the stem cells were implanted back again. Nine out of twelve adult monkeys and three out of five prepubescent monkeys were able to produce sperms and create healthy offspring.
To those who are still not aware about stem cells these cells are the raw material to make different organs in our body. These stem cells (specifically known as pluripotent stem cells) could be transformed into any cell and later on develop any organ after the right stimulation.
These cells are abundant and easy to extract in fetuses and umbilical cords but are tougher to find in full grown adults. Researchers are trying to come up with new improved techniques for extraction of stem cells from adults which would solve many ethical and religious issues. Advancements in stem cell therapy promise cures of many untreatable and co-morbid diseases.
While this research may sound promising, more trials are needed to confirm the efficiency before it could be considered a successful form of treatment for the humans.
This solution may also cause many ethical issues; it is hard to determine the right time for the stem cell implantation while making sure the stem cells are not responsible for cancer again.
Whatever the risks maybe the success has given hope to many men who are infertile. Stem cell therapy is being used to treat burn cases, heart diseases, leukemia, brain disease and is a valuable hopeful treatment option in genetic diseases.
