Essential roles of fibroblast growth factors in male reproduction
The testis serves as the reproductive gland in male mammals,primarily tasked with the production of sperm and syn-thesis of androgens.A complex signaling network consisting of various cell types,including germ cells,Sertoli cells,and Leydig cells,supports the structure and maintains the function of the testis.Apart from the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis,various sex hormones and cytokines are also implicated in the regulation of testicular function.The fibroblast growth factor(FGF)represents a crucial class of active cytokines that stimulate cell proliferation,induce tissue differentiation,and govern organ development.This review summari-zes the molecular mechanisms of FGF regulating testicular development and spermatogenesis and maintaining male fertility.