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Current Molecular Pharmacology

Editor-in-Chief

ISSN (Print): 1874-4672
ISSN (Online): 1874-4702

Mechanisms of Hormonal Regulation of Sertoli Cell Development and Proliferation: A Key Process for Spermatogenesis

Author(s): Gustavo M. Escott, Luciana A. da Rosa and Eloisa da Silveira Loss

Volume 7, Issue 2, 2014

Page: [96 - 108] Pages: 13

DOI: 10.2174/1874467208666150126155032

Price: $65

Abstract

In adulthood, the main function of the testes is the production of male gametes. In this process, Sertoli cells are essential for sustained spermatogenesis, providing the developing germ cells with the physical and nutritional support required. The total number of Sertoli cells in adulthood determines the daily gamete production, since Sertoli cells can support only a limited number of developing germ cells. Considering that Sertoli cell proliferation only occurs during the immature period, proper development and proliferation of the Sertoli cells during the proliferative phase are crucial to male reproductive health in adulthood. The proliferation process of the Sertoli cells is finely regulated by an assortment of hormonal and paracrine/autocrine factors, which regulate the rate and extent of proliferation. In the present review, we discuss the most important hormonal and paracrine factors involved in the regulation of Sertoli cell proliferation, as well as the signaling mechanisms by which they exert their effects.

Keywords: FSH, IGF-1, insulin, reproduction, testis.


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