Title:Mechanisms of Hormonal Regulation of Sertoli Cell Development and Proliferation: A Key Process for Spermatogenesis
Volume: 7
Author(s): Gustavo M. Escott, Luciana A. da Rosa and Eloisa da Silveira Loss
Affiliation:
Keywords:
FSH, IGF-1, insulin, reproduction, testis.
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.