Transforming growth factor beta 1 induces tight junction disruptions and loss of transepithelial resistance across porcine vas deferens epithelial cells.

ABSTRACT: Epithelial cells lining the male excurrent duct contribute to male fertility by employing a number of physiological mechanisms that generate a luminal microenvironment conducive to spermatozoa maturation and storage. Among these mechanisms, male duct epithelia establish intercellular tight junctions that constitute a barrier to paracellular diffusion of water, solutes, large molecules, and cells. Mechanisms regulating the male duct epithelial barrier remain unidentified. Transforming growth factor beta (TGFB) is a regulatory cytokine present in high concentrations in human semen. This study examined whether TGFB has any effects on epithelial function exhibited by primary cultures of porcine vas deferens epithelia. TGFB1 exposure caused a 70%-99% decrease in basal transepithelial electrical

SUBMITTER: Pierucci-Alves F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3290666 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature