A stem cell-derived ovarian regenerative patch restores ovarian function and rescues fertility in rats with primary ovarian insufficiency

Rationale: Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) normally occurs before age 40 and is associated with infertility. Hormone replacement therapy is often prescribed to treat vasomotor symptom, but it cannot restore ovarian function or fertility. Stem cell therapy has been studied for the treatment of POI. However, the application of live stem cells has suffered from drawbacks, such as low cell retention/engraftment rate, risks for tumorigenicity and immunogenicity, and lack of off-the-shelf feasibility. Methods: We developed a therapeutic ovarian regenerative patch (ORP) that composed of clinically relevant hydrolysable scaffolds and synthetic mesenchymal stem cells (synMSCs), which are microparticles encapsulating the secretome from MSCs. The therapeutic potency of ORP was tested in rats with cisplatin induced POI injury. Results:In vitro studies revealed that ORP stimulated proliferation of ovarian somatic cells (OSCs) and inhibited apoptosis under injury stress. In a rat model of POI, implantation of ORP rescued fertility by restoring sexual hormone secretion, estrus cycle duration, and follicle development. Conclusion: ORP represents a cell-free, off-the-shelf, and clinically feasible treatment for POI.