Spermatogonial Stem Cell (SSC) Transplant and Testicular Tissue Grafting

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH · Jun 25, 2020

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring a new way to help men who have become infertile due to cancer treatments or other health issues. The researchers are investigating two procedures: using spermatogonial stem cells (which are special cells that can develop into sperm) and grafting testicular tissue. The goal is to see if these methods are safe and can help restore fertility for men who have previously stored their testicular tissue before undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.

To participate in this trial, men must be at least in Tanner stage 3 (a stage of puberty), have their frozen testicular tissue available, and be healthy enough for anesthesia. They also need to have a doctor's approval confirming they are ready for the procedure after finishing their primary cancer treatment. However, those with certain medical histories, like leukemia or testicular cancer, or those who might struggle with understanding the process due to psychological conditions, will not be eligible. If someone joins this trial, they can expect to undergo these innovative procedures with close monitoring to ensure their safety and well-being.

Gender

MALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Male participant at least in Tanner stage 3
• • Previously cryopreserved and stored testicular tissue/cells (frozen due to an infertility-risking diagnosis or treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation) available for autologous transplantation and grafting
• • Healthy enough to undergo anesthesia
• • Written clearance for the procedure from the patient's hematologist or oncologist to confirm the patient has finished treatment for primary condition and are clear to undergo autologous stem cell transplant
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Participants considered to be high risk for surgical complications
• • Participants with a history of leukemia, lymphoma or testicular cancer or a cancer that likely involved testicles at the time of testicular tissue collection
• • Diagnosed with psychological, psychiatric, or other conditions which prevent giving fully informed consent.