Open AccessStem cell research for male infertility
Author(s) -
Kobayashi Hideyuki,
Nagao Koichi,
Nakajima Koichi
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
reproductive medicine and biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.005
H-Index - 22
eISSN - 1447-0578
pISSN - 1445-5781
DOI - 10.1007/s12522-011-0085-6
Subject(s) - stem cell , embryonic stem cell , induced pluripotent stem cell , regenerative medicine , adult stem cell , infertility , biology , reproductive medicine , microbiology and biotechnology , medicine , genetics , pregnancy , gene
Stem cells have the ability both to differentiate into numerous tissues and to self‐renew. Because of these unique properties, stem cells are promising candidates for use in regenerative medicine. Among stem cell types, embryonic stem (ES) cells have been the most studied; however, alternatives such as induced pluripotent stem cells or other adult stem cells are now being established. In this review, we focus on stem cell research that may have applications in treating male infertility. Stem cells with ES‐like properties have been generated from adult human testis tissue. We expect that breakthroughs in stem cell research will increase our understanding of male infertility and lead to treatments in the near future.