Does testosterone regulate germ cell population in testes? QPCR has an answer.

Testosterone production by Leydig cells is important for the proper development of testes and maintenance of spermatogenesis. Treatment with ethylene dimethane sulfonate (EDS) destroys the Leydig cells and ablates production of testosterone. Genes that are specific to specific cell types in testis are being investigated to determine the impact of testosterone loss on the expression of genes including HSD3b2 (Leydig cells), SHBG and FSH receptor (Sertoli cell), CD9 (spermatogonia), and TNP1 (spermatids). Gel electrophoresis and reverse transcription, polymerase chain reaction were used to analyze the RNA isolated from 7‐day or 10‐ day post‐EDS treated rat testes. We anticipate that specific cell markers may be used to assess the effect of presence and absence of testosterone on both the somatic cells and germ cells present in the testes. We are searching for gene markers that could be used to determine germ cell population changes using qPCR. (Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Nathaniel Mills) Supported by TWU Center for Student Research.