The Use of Stem Cells in Assisted Reproduction.

Background

Infertility remains a significant global health challenge, affecting approximately 15% of couples worldwide. In vitro fertilization (IVF) has transformed reproductive medicine; however, challenges such as low success rates in older patients, ovarian insufficiency, endometrial dysfunction, and male infertility continue to limit outcomes.

Objective

This review aims to summarize the principles of IVF and explore the potential role of stem cells in enhancing IVF outcomes, with particular attention to applications in both women and men, as well as the accompanying ethical considerations. Summary: Stem cell research has introduced novel therapeutic opportunities, including ovarian rejuvenation, endometrial regeneration, sperm quality enhancement, and the development of synthetic embryo models. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) demonstrate regenerative properties that may help to overcome current reproductive limitations. Despite encouraging findings from preclinical and early clinical studies, challenges such as tumorigenesis, genetic instability, and ethical controversies remain major barriers to translation.

Conclusions

IVF continues to serve as a cornerstone of assisted reproductive technology (ART). Stem cell-based approaches represent an exciting frontier that could expand the therapeutic possibilities of IVF. Careful clinical validation, international regulatory harmonization, and robust ethical oversight will be essential to ensuring safe and equitable implementation.