Nanotechnology in reproductive medicine: from gamete engineering to precision therapeutics

Infertility represents a significant global health burden, necessitating advanced therapeutic interventions. While Assisted Reproductive Technologies have revolutionized fertility treatment, they remain constrained by limited efficacy, off-target toxicity, and procedural complexity. Nanotechnology has emerged as a transformative frontier, offering precise targeting and controlled release capabilities to circumvent these limitations. This review systematically synthesizes nanotechnological applications in reproductive medicine, ranging from gamete quality enhancement-via antioxidant nanoparticles, microfluidic sperm selection and improved cryopreservation-to targeted therapies for complex disorders including premature ovarian insufficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome, and endometriosis. Despite promising preclinical outcomes, clinical translation is impeded by challenges regarding biocompatibility, large-scale manufacturing, and ethical regulation. Future perspectives emphasize the integration of multi-omics, artificial intelligence, and biocompatible material innovation to elucidate molecular mechanisms and accelerate the transition from bench to bedside, ultimately advancing precision reproductive medicine.