Oocytes from stem cells. (February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sarma, Urooza C.; Findlay, Jock K.; Hutt, Karla J.
• Is Part Of: Best practice & research. Volume 55(2019)
• Page Start: 14
• Page End: 22
• Publication Date: 2019-02
• Subjects: Oocytes -- Folliculogenesis -- Fertility -- Stem cells -- Cancer -- Chemotherapy; Gynecology -- Periodicals; Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Genital Diseases, Female; Obstetrics; Gynecology; Obstetrics; Periodicals; 618.05
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2018.07.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1521-6934

Abstract

Abstract: Folliculogenesis describes the process of activating an oocyte-containing primordial follicle from the ovarian reserve and its development to the mature ovulatory stage. This process is highly complex and is controlled by extra- and intra-ovarian signaling events. Oocyte competence and capacity for fertilization to support a viable pregnancy are acquired during folliculogenesis. Cancer and cancer-based therapies can negatively affect this process, compromising fertility. Currently, preservation of fertility in these patients remains limited to surrogacy, oocyte freezing, oocyte donation, or in vitro maturation (IVM). Recent reports of stem cells being used to produce fully competent oocytes and subsequently healthy offspring in mice have opened up a novel avenue for fertility preservation. However, translating these findings into human health first relies on enhancing our understanding of follicle growth and mimicking its intricacies in vitro . Indeed, the future of oocytes from stem cells in humans comes with many possibilities but currently faces several technical and ethical obstacles. Highlights: Oogenesis and folliculogenesis are lengthy and complex processes. Fully functional mature oocytes have been generated from stem cells in mice. It is currently not possible to generate oocytes from stem cells in humans.