Ovarian senescence is a natural part of the reproductive ageing process. It causes a decrease in the quantity and quality of oocytes (immature egg cells) in the ovaries. However, a significant number of young women are experiencing premature ovarian senescence, which makes it much harder to fall pregnant.
A new study, published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Oncology, suggests that stem cells and umbilical cord blood (UCB) plasma may play a role in preventing premature ovarian senescence.
The objective of the study was to test the capacity of different human plasma sources, enriched in factors secreted by stem cells, to repair damage to the ovaries and promote follicular development. The researchers were also interested in studying the mechanisms behind the regenerative properties of enriched plasma.
In the first phase, they used human plasma that had been enriched in bone marrow stem cell soluble factors, umbilical cord blood (UCB) plasma, and their activated forms. The plasma was tested on mice to ascertain their follicle development and breeding performance. The mice had previously received chemotherapy to induce ovarian damage.
The proteomic profile of the different types of plasma were also analysed to discover putative proteins and the mechanism involved in their regenerative properties.
In the second phase, the most effective plasma treatment was used in human ovarian cortex xenografted in immunodeficient mice.
The researchers found that the plasma enriched in bone marrow stem cell factors and UCB plasma helped with microvessel formation and cell proliferation. They also reduced apoptosis in ovarian tissue, helping follicular development and fertility in mouse models.
Plasma activation improved these effects even more. Activated G-CSF plasma was particularly potent at inducing ovarian rescue in mice and human ovaries. A proteomic analysis indicated that its effects may be impacted by several factors related including apoptosis, signal transduction, cell communication, gene expression, and more.
The researchers now believe that stem cell secreted factors could form an effective treatment for improving the reproductive outcomes for women with impaired ovarian function.
Source: Stem cell secreted factor therapy regenerates the ovarian niche and rescues follicles
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