Revolutionizing Reproductive Medicine: A Comprehensive Literature Review on Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Their Potential in Enhancing Endometrial Receptivity for Improved Fertility Outcomes

Document Type : Systematic Review (without meta-analysis)

Authors

1 Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

2 Teaching Hospital Jaffna Jaffna Sri Lanka

Abstract

Importance: Female infertility is influenced by genetic, lifestyle, and medical factors. Concerns about Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), particularly Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), include risks of perinatal defects. This review examines mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy as a potential solution, focusing on its role in enhancing endometrial receptivity, crucial for reproductive success.
Objective: The study explores how MSCs improve endometrial receptivity and fertility outcomes, aiming to address gaps in the literature, particularly during the implantation window.
Evidence review: A systematic review of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases from the last decade identified 59 relevant articles. Selection criteria included study design, participant characteristics, MSC types, therapeutic routes, and key outcomes.
Findings: MSCs enhance endometrial receptivity through regenerative, immune-modulatory, and trophic effects. Molecular evidence links MSCs to critical gene expression and signaling pathways essential for implantation. Ethical considerations and the need for further research to ensure MSC therapy’s safety are emphasized.
Conclusion: This review offers insights into MSCs' potential in reproductive medicine, highlighting the importance of ethical considerations and further research to support clinical applications.

Keywords

Main Subjects