Spermatogenesis is a complex process by which spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) self-renew and differentiate into spermatozoa under the elaborate coordination of testicular microenvironment, namely, niche. Sertoli cells, which locate around male germ cells, are the most critical component of the niche. Significant progress has recently been made by peers and us on uncovering the effects of Sertoli cells on regulating fate determinations of SSCs. Here we addressed the roles and regulation of Sertoli cells in normal and abnormal spermatogenesis. Specifically, we summarized the biological characteristics of Sertoli cells, and we emphasized the roles of Sertoli cells in mediating the self-renewal, differentiation, apoptosis, de-differentiation, and trans-differentiation of SSCs. The association between abnormal function of Sertoli cells and impaired spermatogenesis was discussed. Finally, we highlighted several issues to be addressed for further investigation on the effects and mechanisms of Sertoli cells in spermatogenesis. Since Sertoli cells are the key supportive cells for SSCs and they are very receptive to modification, a better understanding of the roles and regulation of Sertoli cells in SSC biology and spermatogenesis would make it feasible to identify novel targets for gene therapy of male infertility as well as seek more efficient and safer strategies for male contraception.
Download full-text PDF |
Source |
|---|---|
| http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.04.007 | DOI Listing |
Publication Analysis
Top Keywords
Similar Publications
Testicular Torsion in a 14-Year-Old with Sertoli Cell Granular Cell Change and Sertoli Nodules.
Fetal Pediatr Pathol
January 2025
Department of Pathology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center and Children's Hospital of New Orleans, New Orleans Children's Hospital, New Orleans, LA, USA.
Sertoli eosinophilic granular change and Sertoli cell nodules are incidental findings. This details focal Sertoli eosinophilic granular and Sertoli cell only changes coincident with Sertoli cell nodules in a pubertal testis with acute torsion and bell clapper deformity. A 14-year-old with bell clapper deformity underwent orchiectomy for torsion.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFHormonal Regulation of Urokinase- and Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator in Mouse Sertoli Cells.
Mol Reprod Dev
January 2025
Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
A role for the plasminogen activator (PA) system has been postulated in mammalian gonads, considering the complex process of morphogenesis these organs undergo during their development. Our results show that mouse Sertoli cells under basal conditions produce both types of PA, tissue-type PA (tPA) and urokinase-type PA (uPA), and hormonal treatments increase the production of both enzymes. The increased enzyme secretion does not correlate with a parallel increase in their mRNAs.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe action of retinoic acid on spermatogonia in the testis.
Curr Top Dev Biol
January 2025
School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States. Electronic address:
For mammalian spermatogenesis to proceed normally, it is essential that the population of testicular progenitor cells, A undifferentiated spermatogonia (A), undergoes differentiation during the A to A1 transition that occurs at the onset of spermatogenesis. The commitment of the A population to differentiation and leaving a quiescent, stem-like state gives rise to all the spermatozoa produced across the lifespan of an individual, and ultimately determines male fertility. The action of all-trans retinoic acid (atRA) on the A population is the determining factor that induces this change.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIdentification of novel cytoskeleton protein involved in spermatogenic cells and sertoli cells of non-obstructive azoospermia based on microarray and bioinformatics analysis.
BMC Med Genomics
January 2025
Department of Surgery, Faculty of General of Medicine, Koya University, Koya, Kurdistan Region - F.R., KOY45, Iraq.
Background: During mammalian spermatogenesis, the cytoskeleton system plays a significant role in morphological changes. Male infertility such as non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) might be explained by studies of the cytoskeletal system during spermatogenesis.
Methods: The cytoskeleton, scaffold, and actin-binding genes were analyzed by microarray and bioinformatics (771 spermatogenic cellsgenes and 774 Sertoli cell genes).
Fertility in transgender and gender diverse people: systematic review of the effects of gender-affirming hormones on reproductive organs and fertility.
Hum Reprod Update
January 2025
Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Centre of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Background: Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people seek gender-affirming care at any age to manage gender identities or expressions that differ from their birth gender. Gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) and gender-affirming surgery may alter reproductive function and/or anatomy, limiting future reproductive options to varying degrees, if individuals desire to either give birth or become a biological parent.
Objective And Rationale: TGD people increasingly pursue help for their reproductive questions, including fertility, fertility preservation, active desire for children, and future options.
Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?
Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!