Epigenetics Research: Open Access
Open Access

Cryopreservation of Spermatogenic Cells for Human In Vitro Applications

Anjali Gupta^{* *}Correspondence: Anjali Gupta, Department of Reproductive Medicine and Endocrinology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New , India, Email:

Author info »

Description

Cryopreservation of spermatogenic cells plays a critical role in reproductive medicine, enabling the storage and preservation of male fertility for future use. This technique has broad implications for various fields, including fertility preservation in men undergoing cancer treatment, those with certain medical conditions, or men wishing to delay fatherhood. Cryopreservation techniques have advanced significantly, providing promising opportunities for maintaining sperm function and quality for In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and other Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART).

Cryopreservation process of spermatogenic cells

Cryopreservation involves the controlled freezing of biologicalmaterial at very low temperatures to halt metabolic activity andpreserve cell viability. The process for spermatogenic cellcryopreservation includes several key steps:

Collection of spermatogenic cells: Spermatogenic cells can becollected through different methods depending on theindividual’s health condition and reproductive goals. For menwith normal sperm production, semen is typically collected viamasturbation. However, for men who have undergone medicaltreatments that affect spermatogenesis or for those with nonobstructiveazoospermia (lack of sperm in semen), testiculartissue or sperm obtained Through Testicular Sperm Extraction(TESE) may be used.

Cell preparation: After collection, the spermatogenic cells areprocessed. This involves isolating sperm or spermatogenic cellsfrom the tissue, as well as preparing them for freezing by dilutingthe cells in a cryoprotectant solution.  Cryoprotectants, such asglycerol or Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO), are added to the cells toprevent ice crystal formation during freezing, which can damagecellular structures and reduce cell viability.

Freezing and storage: Once the cells are properly prepared, theyare frozen using a slow-cooling or vitrification method. Slowcoolinginvolves gradually reducing the temperature of the cellsbefore they reach their final storage temperature, usually around -196°C in liquid nitrogen. Vitrification, a rapid freezingtechnique, is becoming increasingly popular as it minimizes theformation of ice crystals. The frozen spermatogenic cells are thenstored in liquid nitrogen tanks for long-term preservation.

Advances and future directions in spermatogeniccell cryopreservation

Recent advancements in cryopreservation techniques haveshown promising results, especially with regard to thepreservation of Spermatogonial Stem Cells (SSCs), which are theprecursor cells to sperm. SSCs have the potential to regeneratesperm in vitro, offering an exciting avenue for fertilitypreservation in young men who are at risk of infertility due tocancer treatment or genetic conditions. One of the mostsignificant developments in the field of spermatogenic cellcryopreservation is the improvement of vitrification techniques.Vitrification is a rapid freezing method that involves cooling cellsso quickly that they solidify into a glass-like state withoutforming damaging ice crystals. This technique has shown highersurvival rates for sperm and spermatogenic cells, making it apromising tool for preserving male fertility.

Clinical applications and impact on assistedreproductive technologies

Cryopreservation of spermatogenic cells has significant clinicalapplications in Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). Formen undergoing cancer treatment, preserving spermatogeniccells before treatment allows them to retain their fertility andhave the option of using these cells for In Vitro Fertilization(IVF) in the future. Similarly, for men experiencing infertilitydue to genetic conditions or age-related decline in sperm quality,cryopreservation offers a solution to preserve their reproductivepotential.

Conclusion

Cryopreservation of spermatogenic cells is a critical advancement in reproductive medicine, offering men the ability to preserve their fertility for future use. While challenges remain in optimizing preservation techniques for immature spermatogenic cells, recent advancements in vitrification, stem cell biology and gene editing provide potential avenues for improving outcomes. As these techniques continue to evolve, the potential for better preservation and regeneration of sperm cells holds significant potential for male fertility preservation and assisted reproduction. The ability to store spermatogenic cells has profound implications not only for fertility preservation but also for advancing the field of reproductive medicine as a whole.