First step in development of artificial human testicle

Researchers from the University of California San Francisco have now found a way to propagate primary human Sertoli cells in the laboratory. Derived from the testis, it has been difficult to maintain Sertoli cells, the “nurse” cells responsible for overseeing sperm production, outside of the human body.

Investigators say this is the first step to developing an artificial human testicle for reproductive research. Further research is needed to examine how hormones effect the growth and function of Sertoli cells, and the ability of Sertoli cells to support germ cell development in vitro.

Results showing how the cultured human cells function will be presented at the 66th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) in Denver on Tuesday.