Published on July 20, 2021 – Updated on July 20, 2021

Impact of cancer, its treatments and fertility preservation procedures on human gamete and gametogenesis quality

Spindle and Actin network Immunofluorescence of an in vitro matured human oocyte after vitrification allowing to assess structure preservation after undergoing an innovative cryopreservation protocol.

Spindle and Actin network Immunofluorescence of an in vitro matured human oocyte after vitrification allowing to assess structure preservation after undergoing an innovative cryopreservation protocol.

Both the cancer and its treatments have deleterious effects on the reproductive system and can shorten fertile window. These effects can be counteracted by preserving fertility. It is therefore of high importance to optimize fertility preservation techniques for patients undergoing potentially gonadotoxic treatments. Our group « Fertility and cancer » aims to guarantee fertility preservation procedures devoid of any risk of reintroducing cancer. For this purpose, we have developed sensitive methods to detect specific biomarkers of cancer in Human ovarian and testicular tissues. As experts of gametes and germinal tissues cryopreservation, we are also working on the optimization of these technologies. Our group also seeks for a better understanding of the putative effects of cancer and its novel treatments on human reproductive functions. To achieve these projects, we are developing in vitro culture systems, such as oocyte in vitro maturation and 3-D organotypic culture of human ovarian tissue. Through transcriptomic, cellular and immunohistochemical analyses, we are assessing the functional quality of gametes and germinal tissues after cancer (e.g.  breast cancer, neuroblastoma, Ewing sarcoma) or cancer treatments (immunotherapy, radiotherapy) exposure. These approaches also enable us to evaluate the effects of novel and innovative cryopreservation technologies on Human reproductive functions. Altogether, these studies will allow us to better characterize the deleterious effects of a cancer and its treatments in order to better prevent them and to optimize fertility preservation approaches.  

While novel cancer therapies have improved patient survival rates, it is now of high importance to validate theranostic biomarkers to optimize fertility preservation and to improve gamete cryopreservation technologies.  

Other GCCA Partners

  • Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital - Medical Assistance to Procreation Service - CECOS
  • Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital - Medical Cytogenetics Lab
  • Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital - Pediatric Hematology Oncology Department
  • Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital - Pathology Department
  • Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital - Gynecology Department
  • Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital - Federation of Cancerology
  • Jean PERRIN Comprehensive Cancer Center - Pathology Department
  • Jean PERRIN Comprehensive Cancer Center - Nuclear Medicine Department
  • Jean PERRIN Comprehensive Cancer Center - Medical Oncology Department