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The roles and regulation of Sertoli cells in fate determinations of spermatogonial stem cells and spermatogenesis.

Abstract
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.
AuthorsYanan Hai, Jingmei Hou, Yun Liu, Yang Liu, Hao Yang, Zheng Li, Zuping He
JournalSeminars in cell & developmental biology (Semin Cell Dev Biol) Vol. 29 Pg. 66-75 (May 2014) ISSN: 1096-3634 [Electronic] England
PMID24718316 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)
CopyrightCopyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Chemical References
  • Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor
Topics
  • Adult Stem Cells (cytology)
  • Animals
  • Apoptosis
  • Azoospermia (pathology)
  • Cell Differentiation (physiology)
  • Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (biosynthesis, genetics)
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Phagocytosis
  • Sertoli Cells (physiology)
  • Spermatogenesis (physiology)
  • Spermatogonia (cytology)
  • Spermatozoa (cytology)

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