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Aromatase and oestrogens in human male germ cells

Sophie Lambard1, Serge Carreau

  • 1Laboratoire de Biochimie-IBFA, UPRES EA 2608-USC INRA, Université de Caen, Caen Cédex, France.

International Journal of Andrology
|September 1, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Aromatase (P450arom) is active in human testes, including sperm. Oestrogen receptors are also present in sperm, suggesting oestrogens play a role in male germ cell development.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive biology and endocrinology.
  • Steroidogenesis and germ cell development.

Background:

  • The mammalian testis produces spermatozoa and synthesizes steroids, including oestrogens.
  • Oestrogens are formed from androgens via aromatase (P450arom).
  • P450arom is found in male germ cells across various mammalian species.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence and activity of aromatase (P450arom) in human male germ cells and spermatozoa.
  • To determine the expression of oestrogen receptors (ER-alpha and ER-beta) in human germ cells and spermatozoa.

Main Methods:

  • Demonstration of biologically active aromatase (P450arom) in human Leydig cells, immature germ cells, and ejaculated spermatozoa.
  • Detection of oestrogen receptors (ER-alpha and ER-beta) in germ cells and spermatozoa.
  • Identification of a truncated form of ER-alpha in spermatozoa.

Main Results:

  • Biologically active aromatase (P450arom) is expressed in human Leydig cells, immature germ cells, and ejaculated spermatozoa.
  • Human germ cells and spermatozoa possess both oestrogen receptors (ER-alpha and ER-beta).
  • A truncated form of oestrogen receptor alpha is specifically found in spermatozoa.

Conclusions:

  • Oestrogens are likely involved in multiple stages of male germ cell development.
  • The presence of active aromatase and oestrogen receptors in human spermatozoa suggests a direct role for oestrogens in sperm function or maturation.

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