Spermatogenesis, reviewed

As discussed above, Sertoli cells play a central role in spermatogenesis. These cells also produce the regulatory molecules inhibin and activin, which are members of the TGF superfamily (see review by Vale et al., 1994). In males, activin and inhibin coordinately regulate the level of serum FSH. Inhibin is a peptide hormone produced in response to FSH that exerts negative feedback on the pituitary gland to... 

The purpose of this chapter is to review the methods that are currently in use to evaluate sexual function and fertility. Sexual function and fertility are complex reproductive functions that can be affected by environmental exposures. Reproductive disorders include spontaneous abortions, impaired spermatogenesis, menstrual disorders, impotence, early menopause and others. Any disturbance in the integrity of the reproductive system can affect these functions. 

Amann RP (1981) A critical review of methods for evaluation of spermatogenesis from seminal characteristics. J Androl, 2 37-58. 

Berendtson WE (1977) Methods for quantifying mammalian spermatogenesis a review. J Anim Sci, 44 818-833. 

Early work on spermatogenesis has been reviewed in the first edition (796). More recent work has been reviewed by Euzet et al. (196), Davis Roberts (171), Ubelaker (889) and Lumsden Specian (462). Ultrastructure studies have shown that cestode spermatozoa generally (but see below) have the same pattern of organisation in all orders. The chief features are (a) a long thread-like body (b) an elongated nucleus (c) cortical microtubules underlying the plasma membrane (d) the absence of... 

Studies in animals have shown that sulfur mustard may induee developmental and reproductive effects (reviewed in NRC, 1999, 2003). Acute exposures resulting in systemic uptake may have effects on reproductive organs, including inhibition of spermatogenesis. Fetal anomalies were observed in tests with rats given sulfur mustard during gestation but only at maternally toxic doses. 

A. L. Kierszenbaum Mammalian spermatogenesis in vivo and in vitro, a partnership of spermatogenic and somatic cell lineages. Endocrine Review 15, 116(1994). 

Phosphorylation of histones is another mechanism for the neutralization of basic proteins. The phosphorylation reaction occurs after the completion of the histone synthesis. It is reversible. Phosphorylation of the lysine- and arginine-rich histones precedes an increase in RNA synthesis. This was found in transforming lymphocytes, in the regenerating liver and pancreas, etc. Histones and protamines are phosphorylated at the final stages of spermatogenesis (see review of Allfrey et al, 1964, 1972). Specific kinases which participated in the transport of phosphorus groups from ATP to histones are stimulated by cyclic AMP (Allfrey et al., 1972). 

Reviews - A review of the clinical effects of antifertility agents appeared by Tyler.The action of drugs on spermatogenesis has been reviewed by Fox and Fox. Borth reviewed current concepts concerning the endocrinology of the human menstrual cycle. The mode of action of contraceptive drugs has been comprehensively reviewed by Diczfalusy. ... 

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