Androgen stimulation of Sertoli cell function is enhanced by peritubular cells

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Cellular and molecular endocrinology
• Spermatogenesis

Background:

• Sertoli cells are crucial for spermatogenesis, producing androgen binding protein (ABP).
• ABP levels are sensitive to hormonal and cellular microenvironment changes.
• Peritubular cells interact with Sertoli cells, influencing their function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the regulation of androgen binding protein (ABP) production by Sertoli cells.
• To determine the role of testosterone and peritubular cells in ABP synthesis.
• To elucidate the mechanisms by which peritubular cells influence Sertoli cell function.

Main Methods:

• Culture of purified Sertoli cell-enriched aggregates in serum-free minimal essential medium (MEM).
• Addition of testosterone or 17 beta-estradiol to the culture medium.
• Co-culture of Sertoli cells with peritubular cells or use of peritubular cell-conditioned medium.
• Measurement of androgen binding protein (ABP) production rates.

Main Results:

• ABP production rates declined in cultured Sertoli cell aggregates.
• Testosterone partially prevented this decline, while 17 beta-estradiol did not.
• The presence of peritubular cells enhanced the effect of testosterone on ABP production.
• Conditioned medium from peritubular cells sustained ABP production rates in Sertoli cell aggregates.

Conclusions:

• Peritubular cells, through secreted factors, modulate Sertoli cell ABP production.
• Androgens may act directly on Sertoli cells and indirectly via peritubular cells.
• This suggests a complex regulatory network involving androgens, Sertoli cells, and peritubular cells in regulating ABP synthesis.