Recent progress in understanding the mechanisms of Leydig cell differentiation. (15th June 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Inoue, Miki; Baba, Takashi; Morohashi, Ken-ichirou
• Is Part Of: Molecular and cellular endocrinology. Volume 468(2018)
• Page Start: 39
• Page End: 46
• Publication Date: 2018-06-15
• Subjects: Leydig cell -- Genome-wide analysis -- Reprogramming; Endocrinology -- Periodicals; Molecular biology -- Periodicals; Cytology -- Periodicals; Endocrinology -- Periodicals; Hormones -- Periodicals; Endocrinologie -- Périodiques; Cytology; Endocrinology; Molecular biology; Periodicals; 573.4
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.12.013
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0303-7207

Abstract

Abstract: Leydig cells in fetal and adult testes play pivotal roles in eliciting male characteristics by producing androgen. Although numerous studies of Leydig cells have been performed, the mechanisms for differentiation of the two cell types (fetal Leydig and adult Leydig cells), their developmental and functional relationship, and their differential characteristics remain largely unclear. Based on recent technical progress in genome-wide analysis and in vitro investigation, novel and fascinating observations concerning the issues above have been obtained. Focusing on fetal and adult Leydig cells, this review summarizes the recent progress that has advanced our understanding of the cells. Highlights: Genome-wide analyses unveiled characteristics of Leydig cells. New culture systems uncovered mechanisms underlying Leydig cell differentiation. Leydig cells were directly reprogrammed from fibroblasts.