Effects of chemotherapy on male sperm DNA
Short Term Genetic Effects of Chemotherapy on Male Germ Cells
This study is testing how chemotherapy affects sperm DNA in men with cancer to help understand the best ways to protect their fertility during treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | Male |
| Sponsor | University of Pittsburgh Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT02975245 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to assess the short-term effects of chemotherapy on sperm DNA in men undergoing cancer treatment. Participants will provide semen samples before starting chemotherapy and at three time points afterward to evaluate any changes in sperm quality and genetic integrity. The study seeks to address the lack of national guidelines regarding fertility preservation for men who may not have had the opportunity to cryopreserve their sperm prior to treatment. By understanding the timing and impact of chemotherapy on male germ cells, the study hopes to provide insights into safe practices for sperm collection post-treatment.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are men scheduled to undergo chemotherapy who can produce semen samples before and after treatment.
Not a fit: Patients who have previously received chemotherapy or have significant sperm production issues may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help establish guidelines for sperm collection after chemotherapy, potentially preserving fertility for men undergoing cancer treatment.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically addressing this timing issue, studies on the effects of chemotherapy on male fertility have shown varying results, indicating a need for further investigation.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Be scheduled to undergo treatment with chemotherapeutic agents for a medical indication * Be able to produce semen samples prior to chemotherapy and one week after first round of chemotherapy Exclusion Criteria: * Men who have previously been treated with chemotherapeutic agents. * Men with significant oligospermia or azospermia.
Where this trial is running
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Magee-Womens Hospital — Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Kyle Orwig, PhD — University of Pittsburgh/University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Rachel Neelley
- Email: fertilitypreservation@upmc.edu
- Phone: 412-641-7475
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.