Cryopreservation of Prepubertal Testicular Tissue for Preservation of Fertility in Young Boys With Cancer
Launched by UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH · Sep 28, 2023
Trial Information
Current as of June 26, 2025
Recruiting
Keywords
ClinConnect Summary
This clinical trial is focused on helping prepubertal boys who are about to undergo cancer treatment that may put them at high risk of becoming infertile. Since there are currently no options available to preserve fertility in these young boys, the study aims to collect and freeze small samples of testicular tissue from them. This tissue can potentially be used in the future to help restore fertility after their cancer treatment. The researchers will also study the tissue in the lab to learn more about how germ cells, which are important for producing sperm, develop.
To be eligible for this trial, boys who are prepubertal or just starting puberty and who are set to receive cancer treatment with a high risk of infertility can participate, provided they cannot produce a semen sample on their own. The procedure will involve taking a small biopsy of testicular tissue during a routine procedure and will not delay their cancer treatment. The tissue will be safely stored for up to 55 years for future use, and the study will follow all necessary legal guidelines. Parents or guardians will need to give informed consent for their child to participate.
Gender
MALE
Eligibility criteria
- Inclusion Criteria:
- • Pre- and peripubertal boys
- • Due to receive cancer treatment that is predicted to have a high risk (\>80%) of infertility
- • Consent to removal of testicular tissue for storage and research
- • Unable to produce a semen sample by masturbation
- Exclusion Criteria:
- • Participation in study would delay treatment
- • Too unwell to undergo the procedure
- • Pre-existing testicular pathology/previous testicular surgery (eg orchidopexy)
- • Able to produce a semen sample for cryopreservation
About University Of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution renowned for its commitment to research excellence and innovation, serves as a leading clinical trial sponsor dedicated to advancing healthcare through rigorous scientific inquiry. With a strong emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration, the university facilitates cutting-edge clinical studies that aim to explore novel therapies and improve patient outcomes. Leveraging its extensive network of researchers, healthcare professionals, and state-of-the-art facilities, the University of Edinburgh is at the forefront of translating scientific discoveries into practical applications, thereby contributing significantly to the global medical community.
Contacts
Jennifer Cobb
Immunology at National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Locations
Edinburgh, Lothian, United Kingdom
Patients applied
Trial Officials
Rod T Mitchell, MBChB
Principal Investigator
University of Edinburgh
Timeline
First submit
Trial launched
Trial updated
Estimated completion
Not reported