NCT06518746 · University of Colorado, Denver
Gonadal Dysgenesis Tissue Cryopreservation for Fertility Preservation
What this study is about
The "Gonadal Dysgenesis Tissue Cryopreservation for Fertility Preservation" study is open to a subset of patients with disorders of sex development (DSD) which is associated with the risk of malignancy and a high risk of infertility or sterility. For these patients, experimental gonadal tissue cryopreservation is the only fertility preservation option available.
View original scientific description
The "Gonadal Dysgenesis Tissue Cryopreservation for Fertility Preservation" study is open to a subset of patients with disorders of sex development (DSD) which is associated with the risk of malignancy and a high risk of infertility or sterility. For these patients, experimental gonadal tissue cryopreservation is the only fertility preservation option available. The overall objective of this study is to determine the safety and efficacy of gonadal tissue cryopreservation as a method of preserving fertility and/or restoring hormonal function in patients with gonadal dysgenesis who are at risk of decreased fertility potential or malignancy.
Interventions
OTHER
Cryopreservation of gonadal tissue
Patients at risk for primary gonadal tumors will undergo unilateral or bilateral gonadectomy for clinical purposes as a standard of care, and a portion of the surgically removed tissue will be cryopreserved for fertility preservation. The pathologist will assess the tissue using sterile technique and every other section will undergo histologic analysis, including evaluation for the presence of tumor or viable germ cell elements. The sections of the tissue for fertility preservation will be refrigerated and held until a final diagnosis is made on the tissue sections that are being processed for histologic analysis. If no tumor is identified and viable germ cell elements are identified, the tissue sections allotted for preservation will be sent in holding media for processing and cryopreservation.
Primary outcome measures
Efficacy, as Assessed via the Proportion of total samples containing viable gonadal tissue and/or the presence of germ cells, and the Proportion of total samples that were successfully cryopreserved for the patient's future use.
Time frame: Up to 48 hours after obtaining gonadal tissue samples.
Determine the efficacy of gonadal tissue and germ cells cryopreservation for patients' future use to restore fertility and/or hormone function. Efficacy is defined as at least 30% of patients having viable gonadal tissue and/or germ cells present.
Safety, as Assessed via the Proportion of adverse events
Time frame: within 72 hours of gonadal tissue removal
Number and proportion of adverse events in gonadal tissue cryopreservation
Acceptability as a fertility preservation method, as Assessed via the survey responses by eligible patients and/or their guardians.
Time frame: Through study completion, up to ten years.
Descriptive analysis of survey responses, including the Decision Regret Scale scores (mean/median scores across domains).
Level of demand
Time frame: Through study completion, up to ten years.
Descriptive analysis of the proportion of eligible patients who elect gonadal tissue cryopreservation (numerator) out of those who are eligible (denominator).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- \< 30 years of age
- Individuals diagnosed with a disorder of sex development who have any risk for malignancy in their gonadal tissue and will have their gonads removed for a clinical indication
- Individuals diagnosed with a disorder of sex development who are at risk of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) due to an underlying genetic condition
Exclusion criteria
- Patients likely to retain inherent fertility and reproductive function
- Patients deemed high risk for perioperative complications
- Patients 7-17 years of age unable to provide assent (i.e. significant psychiatric problems/cognitive delay)
- Patients 18 and older unable to provide consent (i.e. significant psychiatric problems/cognitive delay)
Where
- Aurora, Colorado
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 18, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations