Stimulation of TM3 Leydig cell proliferation via GABA(A) receptors: a new role for testicular GABA.

ABSTRACT: The neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and subtypes of GABA receptors were recently identified in adult testes. Since adult Leydig cells possess both the GABA biosynthetic enzyme glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), as well as GABA(A) and GABA(B) receptors, it is possible that GABA may act as auto-/paracrine molecule to regulate Leydig cell function. The present study was aimed to examine effects of GABA, which may include trophic action. This assumption is based on reports pinpointing GABA as regulator of proliferation and differentiation of developing neurons via GABA(A) receptors. Assuming such a role for the developing testis, we studied whether GABA synthesis and GABA receptors are already present in the postnatal testis, where fetal Leydig cells and, to a much greater extend,

SUBMITTER: Geigerseder C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC416489 | biostudies-literature | 2004 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature