Cryopreservation of Ovarian Tissue for Potential In Vitro Maturation or Autologous Transplantation

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the freezing and thawing of ovarian tissue and the in vitro maturation of immature eggs to help people at risk for premature ovarian failure conceive genetically related children. This research focuses on females up to 45 years old who are premenopausal and facing treatments or conditions that may cause early menopause or ovarian failure, such as cancer therapies or surgeries removing ovaries. The study aims to develop better technologies for preserving fertility in these patients. Participants will undergo preoperative assessments including ultrasound of the ovaries, blood tests to measure hormone levels, and clearance for surgery. Depending on individual evaluation, one or both ovaries may be surgically removed using laparotomy or laparoscopy. The ovarian tissue will be processed, with the cortex separated and frozen in strips for possible future use. Some tissue may be thawed later to develop egg maturation techniques, potentially using animal models. Postoperative care will be provided, and the timing of surgery will be coordinated with the patient's oncologist. During follow-up, hormone tests such as AMH and FSH levels, along with pelvic ultrasounds, will be performed 6 months to 1 year after surgery to evaluate ovarian reserve and function. Participants may choose to use, discard, or donate their frozen ovarian tissue for research. The main outcome measured is ovarian function after cryopreservation and potential maturation or transplantation. The study involves routine assessments and hormone testing over the course of up to a year following surgery or treatment.

Cryopreservation of Ovarian Tissue