Initiation of Spermatogenesis in Vitro1

In vitro production of haploid cells after coculture of CD49f+ with Sertoli cells from testicular sperm extraction in nonobstructive azoospermic patients

“…We then cocultured the SSC population onto a monolayer of Sertoli cells and collagen matrix components of the basal layer of seminiferous tubules, which provided structural support to SSCs. In addition, the Sertoli cells were stimulated with FSH (30,37) and testosterone, the two main players in the differentiation and maturation of spermatogonia toward sperm (38)(39)(40). Because the presence of Leydig cells was demonstrated to not be mandatory in a bovine coculture SSC system, Aponte et al (41) grew SSCs in a mix of somatic cells (e.g., Sertoli, Leydig, peritubular), and the presence of Leydig cells was anecdotal and not stimulated by luteinizing hormone (LH).…”

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“…FSH stimulates spermatogenesis in the sertoli cells, while LH stimulates the production of testosterone in leydig cells of the testis 25 . Many studies on the testis of rat treated with plant extracts has also demonstrated that the inhibitory activity on the proliferation of spermatogonia in mammals 26,27,28 . Spermatogenesis is therefore, a complicated process, covering proliferation of the spermatogonia, long-lasting process of the tissue meiosis and numerous changes in the spermatids during their pre-formation 29,30 .…”

Effects of Hormones on Spermatogenesis in the Rat

“…It is noteworthy however, that germ cells in tissue culture appear to require néither ICSH nor FSH (Steinberger et al, 1964).…”

“…culture (Steinberger et al, 1964). Since the germinal elements are intimately associated with the numerous cytoplasmic processes of the Sertoli cells, any change in the shape or size of these supporting cells could result in a loss of germ cells due to insufficient support.…”