ATG5-dependent autophagy in Sertoli cells protects against cadmium-disrupted blood-testis barrier via perturbing CXCL2/CXCR2 axis.

ABSTRACT: The blood-testis barrier (BTB), a unique structure established through intercellular connections of Sertoli cells, establishes a protective microenvironment for spermatogenesis and male fertility. Cadmium (Cd), known for its toxicity, is ubiquitously present in the environment. Here, our findings revealed that Cd exposure compromises BTB integrity, as demonstrated by decreased expression of BTB-associated proteins and elevated D_signal/D_radius values. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that activation of the CXCL2/CXCR2 axis contributes to Cd-induced BTB impairment, as evidenced by experiments using a CXCR2 inhibition model. As key BTB components, Sertoli cells rely on autophagy to maintain their physiological functions. However, the specific role and mechanism of Sertol

SUBMITTER: Li H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12549740 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature