Infertility affects approximately 15% of couples worldwide. MSC therapy is being investigated across several aspects of reproductive failure: premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), thin endometrium, poor IVF response, and male factor infertility. The mechanisms are distinct for each, and candidacy must be evaluated individually.
Female Fertility: Ovarian Rejuvenation
In women experiencing premature ovarian failure, diminished ovarian reserve, or poor response to IVF, MSCs support ovarian function through:
Angiogenesis: MSCs promote VEGF-driven blood vessel formation, enhancing oxygen and nutrient supply to ovarian tissue. In clinical studies, MSC therapy has increased Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels — the primary marker of ovarian reserve — suggesting genuine ovarian rejuvenation in some patients.
Oxidative Stress Reduction: Oxidative damage impairs oocyte quality. MSCs' antioxidant properties support healthier ovarian follicles and improve egg quality, which is directly relevant to IVF outcomes.
Female Fertility: Endometrial Regeneration
Thin endometrium (lining < 7mm) is a common cause of implantation failure. MSCs contribute to endometrial health by promoting angiogenesis and cellular proliferation in the endometrial lining. Intra-uterine MSC infusion has been investigated in clinical trials with preliminary results showing endometrial thickening and improved implantation rates in subsequent IVF cycles.
Male Fertility
MSC secretion of growth factors (including IGF-1 and GDNF) supports spermatogonial stem cell function and sperm maturation. In cases of non-obstructive azoospermia or poor sperm quality associated with chronic inflammation or oxidative stress, MSC therapy is being studied as an adjunct to standard reproductive treatments.
Important Context
Fertility outcomes are highly individual and depend on many factors beyond the reach of any single intervention. MSC therapy is not positioned as a standalone fertility treatment — it is an adjunct for specific biological barriers (ovarian reserve, endometrial receptivity, inflammatory infertility) where conventional management has been insufficient. Candidacy requires full reproductive workup documentation.