Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: Vitamin D (VD) metabolism is active in normal testis, but lost during the malignant progression from carcinoma in situ (CIS) to overt germ cell tumors (TGCTs). CIS and TGCTs are often associated with intratubular deposition of hydroxyapatite (microlithiasis). Imbalance in FGF23 and PTH homeostasis may result in calcification of mesodermal-derived tissue, so we hypothesized that this mechanism may be involved in testicular microlithiasis. Here, we investi...

Today there exist no treatment that can improve semen quality in more than 85% of infertile men. Interaction between germ and Sertoli cells is critical for sperm production, and Denosumab, an inhibitor of RANKL, has previously been shown to stimulate sperm production in a fraction of infertile men. Here, we show in a humanized RANKL mouse that Denosumab dose dependently increase germ cell proliferation and testicular weight. RANKL was modified so it can be blocked by Denosumab...

Currently, no treatment options exist to improve semen quality for the majority of infertile men, but it is well known that the interaction between Sertoli- and germ cells is essential to ensure complete spermatogenesis. A recent study suggested that denosumab, an inhibitor of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) signaling, may decrease germ cell apoptosis in human ex vivo testis cultures and stimulate sperm production in some infertile men. Her...

Currently, no treatment options exist to improve semen quality for the majority of infertile men. Proper interaction between germ and Sertoli cells in the testis is critical for sperm production, and a recent study suggested that Denosumab, an inhibitor of RANKL signaling, may stimulate sperm production in some infertile men. Here, we show in animal and human studies how expression of the RANKL signaling system is critical for both Sertoli cell function and the testicular resp...