Neuroplastin Expression in Male Mice Is Essential for Fertility, Mating, and Adult Testosterone Levels.

ABSTRACT: Male reproduction depends on hormonally driven behaviors and numerous genes for testis development and spermatogenesis. Neuroplastin-deficient (Nptn^-/-) male mice cannot sire offspring. By immunohistochemistry, we characterized neuroplastin expression in the testis. Breeding, mating behavior, hormonal regulation, testicular development, and spermatogenesis were analyzed in cell-type specific neuroplastin mutant mice. Leydig, Sertoli, peritubular myoid, and germ cells express Np, but spermatogenesis and sperm number are not affected in Nptn^-/- males. Neuroplastin lack from CNS neurons or restricted to spermatogonia or Sertoli cells permitted reproduction. Normal luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) blood levels in Nptn^-/

SUBMITTER: Chen J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10779036 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature