A prostaglandin D2 system in the human testis.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Biochemistry
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) is upregulated in testicular interstitial cells of men with impaired spermatogenesis and infertility.
• COX2 is absent in healthy human testes with normal spermatogenesis.
• The specific prostaglandins (PGs) produced by COX2 in the testis and their roles remain largely unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) in male infertility.
• To identify PGD2 synthetases and PGD2 receptors (DP) in testicular interstitial cells of infertile men.
• To examine PGD2 production and its effects on Leydig cells in an animal model.

Main Methods:

• Immunohistochemical analysis of testicular biopsies from infertile men and controls.
• Detection of PGD2 synthetases and DP receptors in testicular interstitial cells.
• In vitro studies using an animal model to assess PGD2 production by and effects on Leydig cells.

Main Results:

• PGD2 synthetases and DP receptors were found in testicular interstitial cells of men with spermatogenic damage and infertility.
• PGD2 is produced by Leydig cells in an animal model expressing testicular COX2 and DP.
• PGD2 was shown to affect Leydig cells in the animal model.

Conclusions:

• Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) likely plays a significant role in male infertility associated with impaired spermatogenesis.
• The presence of PGD2 synthetases and DP receptors in infertile testes suggests a functional pathway.
• PGD2's interaction with Leydig cells indicates a potential mechanism contributing to reproductive dysfunction.