Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 16, 2026
09:18
Extra Cellular Matrix-Based and Extra Cellular Matrix-Free Generation of Murine Testicular Organoids
Published on: October 7, 2020
The Liver-Testis Axis: Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Implications
Yapeng Zhang1,2, Haoran Xu1,3, Hede Zou1
1Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|July 15, 2026
Summary
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and male hypogonadism (HG) worsen each other via a "liver-testis axis." Liver stress impacts testes, while low testosterone worsens liver fat and inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Hepatology
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and male hypogonadism (HG) frequently coexist.
- A bidirectional "liver-testis axis" is proposed as a link between these conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the mechanistic basis of the liver-testis axis.
- To review the clinical implications of this interaction.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on the interplay between hepatic metabolism and gonadal function.
- Analysis of molecular signaling pathways involved in the liver-testis axis.
Main Results:
- Metabolically stressed hepatocytes release altered hepatokines (e.g., reduced SHBG, elevated FGF21) and cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α).
- These factors impair Leydig cell function, blood-testis barrier, and spermatogenesis.
- Testicular dysfunction and testosterone deficiency exacerbate visceral adiposity, insulin resistance, and inflammation, worsening MASLD and fibrosis.
Conclusions:
- The liver-testis axis provides a framework for understanding the bidirectional crosstalk between liver and testicular function.
- This axis reveals novel pathophysiological insights into the co-occurrence and mutual worsening of MASLD and HG.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Testes: Histology
A tough, fibrous membrane, the tunica albuginea, covers the testes, extending inward to form fibrous partitions or septa, dividing them into internal compartments called lobules. Each lobule has 1 to 3 tightly coiled seminiferous tubules where sperm production occurs. These tubules merge into a tubular network at the back of the testis, known as the rete testis. It connects to 15 to 20 efferent ductules, leading to the epididymis.
The spermatogenic cells, responsible for producing sperm, are...
The spermatogenic cells, responsible for producing sperm, are...
01:26Testosterone: Functions and Regulation
The intricate hormonal interplay essential for male reproductive health begins with the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) by the hypothalamus. This hormone prompts the pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). LH targets the Leydig cells in the testes, stimulating them to produce and release testosterone. In concert with testosterone, FSH acts on the Sertoli cells within the seminiferous tubules to facilitate the release of...
01:22Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Pathophysiologic Assessment and Liver Function Test
In clinical practice, the direct measurement of hepatic blood flow to evaluate liver function presents significant challenges due to the intricate and specialized nature of the necessary techniques. Consequently, healthcare professionals often rely on empirical estimates derived from thorough patient examinations and liver function tests to gauge liver health. Among the tools at their disposal, the Child–Pugh and MELD scoring systems stand out for their ability to categorize and assess the...
01:37Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis
The response to stress—be it physical or psychological, acute or chronic—involves activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis is part of the neuroendocrine system because it involves both neuronal and hormonal communication. Its function is to regulate homeostatic systems—metabolic, cardiovascular, and immune—providing the necessary means to respond to a stressor.
01:30Liver Physiology
The liver, an essential organ in the human body, performs over 200 vital functions that can be broadly categorized into metabolic, hematological, endocrine regulation, and bile production.
Metabolic Regulation:
The liver is the central organ involved in regulating blood composition. It stabilizes blood glucose levels, maintaining them within the range of 70–110 mg/dL. When these levels drop, the liver breaks down glycogen reserves and releases glucose into the bloodstream. It can also...
Metabolic Regulation:
The liver is the central organ involved in regulating blood composition. It stabilizes blood glucose levels, maintaining them within the range of 70–110 mg/dL. When these levels drop, the liver breaks down glycogen reserves and releases glucose into the bloodstream. It can also...
01:23Infertility in Males
Male infertility affects millions of couples worldwide, arising from various factors that impact different stages of the reproductive process. An endocrine imbalance resulting from conditions like hypogonadism, Klinefelter syndrome, or pituitary disorders can disrupt hormone levels and reduce sperm production. Testicular defects, such as tumors, cryptorchidism, atrophic testes, abnormal sperm morphology, and low sperm count or motility, may arise due to genetic factors, structural...