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Published on: August 27, 2020
High expression of NPY receptors in the human testis
Meike Körner1, Beatriche Waser, George N Thalmann
1Division of Cell Biology and Experimental Cancer Research, Institute of Pathology, University of Berne, Switzerland.
Abstract:
NPY receptors represent novel molecular therapeutic targets in cancer and obesity. However, the extent of NPY receptor expression in normal human tissues is poorly investigated. Based on the role of NPY in reproductive functions, the NPY receptor expression was studied in 25 normal human testes and, additionally, 24 testicular tumors using NPY receptor autoradiography. In the normal testis, Leydig cells strongly expressed NPY receptor subtype Y2, and small arterial blood vessels Y1. Y2 receptors were found to be functional with agonist-stimulated [(35)S]GTPγS binding autoradiography. Full functional integrity of the NPY system was further suggested by the immunohistochemical detection of NPY peptide in nerve fibers directly adjacent to Leydig cells and arteries. Germ cell tumors expressed Y1 and Y2 on tumor cells in 33% and Y1 on intratumoral blood vessels in 50%. Based on its strong NPY receptor expression in Leydig cells and blood vessels, the normal human testis represents a potentially important physiological and pharmalogical NPY target.
Insights
Neuropeptide Y (NPY) receptors are expressed in normal human testes, particularly in Leydig cells (Y2) and blood vessels (Y1). This suggests the testis is a key physiological and pharmacological target for NPY system research.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Biology
- Molecular Pharmacology
Background:
- Neuropeptide Y (NPY) receptors are emerging therapeutic targets for cancer and obesity.
- Limited data exists on NPY receptor expression in normal human tissues.
- NPY plays a known role in reproductive functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate NPY receptor expression in normal human testes and testicular tumors.
- To determine the functional status of NPY receptors in the testis.
- To assess the potential of the human testis as an NPY target.
Main Methods:
- NPY receptor autoradiography on 25 normal testes and 24 testicular tumors.
- Agonist-stimulated [(35)S]GTPγS binding autoradiography to assess receptor functionality.
- Immunohistochemistry to detect NPY peptide in testicular tissues.
Main Results:
- Normal testes showed strong Y2 receptor expression in Leydig cells and Y1 in arterial blood vessels.
- Y2 receptors in the testis were confirmed as functional.
- NPY peptide was detected in nerve fibers near Leydig cells and arteries.
- Testicular germ cell tumors expressed Y1 and Y2 receptors on tumor cells (33%) and Y1 on intratumoral vessels (50%).
Conclusions:
- The normal human testis exhibits significant NPY receptor expression, particularly Y2 in Leydig cells and Y1 in blood vessels.
- The NPY system is functionally intact within the normal testis.
- These findings highlight the human testis as a potential physiological and pharmacological target for NPY-related interventions.
