Research Progress on the Key Functions and Regulatory Mechanisms of Sertoli Cells in Spermatogenesis
Sertoli cells,as the only somatic cells in the seminiferous tubules of the testis,not only provide physical support and nutritional environment for germ cells,but also form a blood testis barrier by forming tight connections to protect germ cells from external interference.During spermatogenesis,TGF-β/Smad,AMPK,MAPK and other signaling pathways jointly regulate the disassembly and reconstruction of tight junctions to ensure the smooth passage of germ cells through the spermatogenic epithelium and complete spermatogenesis.In recent years,with the development of omics technology,researchers have a deeper understanding of the key functions and regulatory mechanisms of Sertoli cells.Combined with the application of emerging technologies,this paper reviews the structure and function of Sertoli cells,the composition of tight junctions,and the signaling pathways of Sertoli cells regulating spermatogenesis,in order to provide a new perspective and reference for the study of spermatogenesis mechanism.