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Structural characterization and localization of corticotropin-releasing factor in testis
T Audhya1, C S Hollander, D H Schlesinger
1Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, New York University School of Medicine, NY 10016.
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta
|March 16, 1989
Summary
Researchers sequenced corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF)-like material from ovine testes, finding it identical to hypothalamic CRF. This suggests CRF may play a local role in testicular function.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is primarily known for its role in the stress response.
- The presence and function of CRF in peripheral tissues, such as the testes, are less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and sequence CRF-like material from ovine testes.
- To determine if testicular CRF is identical to hypothalamic CRF.
- To investigate the localization of CRF within the testes.
Main Methods:
- Extraction of CRF from 76 ovine testes using a novel immunoaffinity column and fast protein liquid chromatography.
- Sequencing of the purified CRF using gas-phase sequencing, carboxyamidopeptidase digestion, and cyanogen bromide cleavage.
- Immunohistochemical localization of CRF in rat testes.
Main Results:
- The complete amino acid sequence of ovine testicular CRF was elucidated.
- Testicular CRF was found to be identical to ovine hypothalamic CRF, with minor microheterogeneity at position 39.
- CRF was localized to Leydig cells in rat testes.
Conclusions:
- Ovine testes contain CRF identical to that found in the hypothalamus.
- CRF may have a local function within the testes, potentially acting via paracrine or autocrine mechanisms.
- These findings support a broader role for CRF beyond the central stress response.