Journal Article
Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Therapeutic Approach in Fertility Restoration in Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
Nourhan Hassan; Donia Mohamed Hussein; Fady Ashraf Malak; Mazen Ashraf Abdelaziz; Michael Ibrahim Boushra; Walid Shaalan; Emad M. Elzayat
Stem Cell Reviews and Reports · Vol. 21, Issue 7 · pp. 2089-2102 · 2025
Abstract
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) represents the cessation of ovarian function before age 40 due to follicular depletion or dysfunction. Affecting 1% of women, POI causes infertility and systemic health complications. Current treatments focus on symptom management rather than restoring ovarian function. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) offer promising regenerative potential through paracrine activity, immunomodulation, and tissue repair mechanisms. MSCs from various sources have demonstrated the ability to improve ovarian function, increase follicular survival, and restore hormone production in preclinical models. MSC-derived extracellular vesicles are emerging as cell-free alternatives with similar therapeutic effects. This review examines MSC mechanisms in ovarian restoration, evaluates current evidence, and discusses challenges in clinical translation for POI treatment. Graphical Abstract