Osteocalcin improves testicular morphology but does not ameliorate testosterone synthesis signaling in azoospermic mice

Mahsa Yaghobinejad ¹, Heidar Toolee ², Somayeh Solhjoo ³

⁰Anatomy Department, Medical School, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.

Clinical and Experimental Reproductive Medicine +

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June 9, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Osteocalcin (OCN) may improve male fertility by enhancing spermatogenesis. This study found OCN treatment increased key markers in mice, suggesting its therapeutic potential for infertility.

Area Of Science

Reproductive biology
Endocrinology
Molecular biology

Background

Osteocalcin (OCN) is a bone-related protein that also plays a role in male reproductive functions.
OCN interacts with G protein-coupled receptor class C group 6 member A (GPRC6A) and androgen receptors, influencing testosterone and spermatogenesis.

Purpose Of The Study

To investigate the role of Osteocalcin (OCN) in spermatogenesis and its potential as a therapeutic agent for male infertility.
To examine the effects of OCN on Leydig and Sertoli cells and related gene expression in a mouse model.

Main Methods

Adult mice were induced with azoospermia using busulfan.
Azoospermic mice were treated with Osteocalcin (OCN) (3 ng/g/day) for one month.
Immunohistochemistry and morphometric analysis were used to assess changes in gene expression and cell morphology.

Main Results

OCN treatment led to increased expression of androgen receptors and GPRC6A in mice.
Key genes involved in steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis showed elevated expression levels.
Morphometric analysis indicated positive effects of OCN on germinal cells and the germinal epithelium in azoospermic mice.

Conclusions

Osteocalcin (OCN) demonstrates a crucial role in supporting spermatogenesis.
OCN may be a promising therapeutic agent for treating male infertility.

Keywords:

Bone matrix Receptors, androgen Signal transduction Testosterone