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Studies on the permeability of the blood-testis barrier in stainless steel-administered mice
1Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Portugal.
Abstract:
Previous trials performed in our laboratory have demonstrated that stainless steel corrosion products induced morphological changes in mice seminiferous cells. In this study the functional nature of the blood-testis barrier was investigated, in view of the extensive use of this metallic alloy in orthopaedic surgery. The uptake of horseradish peroxidase by the seminiferous tubules was used as a tracer method being exposed in vitro for different periods of time and observed at the ultrastructural level. Both boundary cells as well as Sertoli cells of experimental group absorbed the tracer, as manifested by vesicles and vacuoles filled with the reaction product, evidencing its role within the testis. Germ cells were also able in the uptake of this macromolecule. However, the tracer did not spread into the junctional complexes between neighboring Sertoli cells, at any interval of time used in this study, demonstrating the functional integrity of this barrier.
Insights
Stainless steel corrosion products can affect testicular cells. This study shows the blood-testis barrier remains intact despite exposure to these products, protecting germ cells.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Materials Science
- Toxicology
Background:
- Previous studies indicated stainless steel corrosion products cause morphological changes in mouse seminiferous cells.
- Orthopaedic surgery extensively utilizes stainless steel, raising concerns about potential reproductive toxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the functional integrity of the blood-testis barrier in the presence of stainless steel corrosion products.
- To assess the barrier's permeability and protective capacity against potential testicular damage.
Main Methods:
- In vitro exposure of mouse seminiferous tubules to stainless steel corrosion products.
- Horseradish peroxidase uptake assay to evaluate barrier permeability.
- Ultrastructural analysis to observe tracer distribution and cellular interactions.
Main Results:
- Horseradish peroxidase was absorbed by boundary cells and Sertoli cells, indicating cellular uptake.
- Germ cells also demonstrated the capacity to absorb the macromolecule tracer.
- Crucially, the tracer did not permeate the junctional complexes between Sertoli cells, confirming barrier integrity.
Conclusions:
- The blood-testis barrier maintains its functional integrity despite exposure to stainless steel corrosion products.
- The barrier effectively prevents the spread of macromolecules into the seminiferous tubules, safeguarding germ cells.
- These findings suggest the blood-testis barrier's resilience in the context of orthopaedic implant materials.
