Stage-specific gene expression by Sertoli cells

Sertoli cells are surrounded by spermatogonia, spermatocytes, and spermatids at specific phases of development. Together, these spermatogenic cells progress through the stages of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium. This synchronous and coordinated development has led to the hypothesis that Sertoli cells recognize the state of development of these germ cells and, in response, alter their function to support the efficient production of male gametes. It is further hypothesized that these changes in function result from stage-specific changes in gene expression by Sertoli cells. Such stage-specific gene expression is the topic of this chapter. We discuss the pioneering studies that proved that this phenomenon existed. We then review the identification, function, and transcriptional regulation of a model gene, cathepsin L. Finally, we discuss a bioinformatics analysis of a genome-wide study of stage-specific gene expression by Sertoli cells. That analysis supports the conclusion that stage-specific gene expression is a fundamental and important characteristic of Sertoli cells.