What are Sertoli cells? Historical, methodological, and functional aspects.

Sertoli cells are somatic cells that are in close contact with germ cells in the mammalian testes. They have multiple functions and fulfill key roles for the development and proper maturation of spermatogenic cells into functional spermatozoa. One of their most important properties is to release trophic factors and supply nutrients to germ cells.

Long-term effects of early postnatal stress on Sertoli cells.

Sertoli cells are somatic cells in testis essential for spermatogenesis, that support the development, maturation, and differentiation of germ cells. Sertoli cells are metabolically highly active and physiologically regulated by external signals, particularly factors in the blood stream. In disease conditions, circulating pathological signals may affect Sertoli cells and consequentially, alter germ cells and fertility.

Epigenetics of childhood trauma: Long term sequelae and potential for treatment.

Childhood trauma (CT) can have persistent effects on the brain and is one of the major risk factors for neuropsychiatric diseases in adulthood. Recent advances in the field of epigenetics suggest that epigenetic factors such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, as well as regulatory processes involving non-coding RNA are associated with the long-term sequelae of CT. This narrative review summarizes current knowledge on the epigenetic basis of CT and describes studies in animal models and human subjects examining how the epigenome and transcriptome are modified by CT in the brain.

Involvement of circulating factors in the transmission of paternal experiences through the germline.

Environmental factors can change phenotypes in exposed individuals and offspring and involve the germline, likely via biological signals in the periphery that communicate with germ cells. Here, using a mouse model of paternal exposure to traumatic stress, we identify circulating factors involving peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) pathways in the effects of exposure to the germline. We show that exposure alters metabolic functions and pathways, particularly lipid-derived metabolites, in exposed fathers and their offspring.