Organotypic culture system for prepubertal mice testicular tissue: A comparative study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background: model for research in regenerative medicine, developmental biology, and toxicology. However, the selection of culture systems for diverse applications and purposes lacks explicit rationale or standardized guidelines. Objective: To evaluate the developmental status of germ cells and Sertoli cells in prepubertal testicular organotypic cultures using different media and tools, and to provide evidence for model standardization. Materials and Methods: for 8 days. After culture, tissue morphology and cell status were assessed via histological analysis (hematoxylin-eosin [HE] staining) and immunofluorescence. Quantification was performed using ImageJ, and statistical analysis was conducted with GraphPad Prism. Results: Over the 8-day culture period, ITTs survived and grew in all systems, maintaining the structural integrity of seminiferous tubules, with tubular diameter increasing over time. Spermatogonia remained viable within the tubules, the number of germ cells increased, and both germ cells and spermatogonia exhibited proliferative activity. Sertoli cells were well preserved, and spermatogonia differentiated into meiotic spermatocytes in the tubule lumen. Compared with M1, M2 and M3 significantly enhanced the proliferation rates of germ cells and spermatogonia, with M2 showing the highest efficiency. Notably, M2 yielded the greatest number of differentiated spermatocytes, whereas M1 better preserved spermatogonial populations despite its lower proliferation rate. Conclusion: This study clarifies the differential effects of culture systems on the development of germ cells and Sertoli cells in ITTs, and provides a standardized organotypic platform for investigating spermatogenesis, male infertility, and potential therapeutic interventions.
Source: Frontiers in Endocrinology
Language: English
Subfield: Reproductive Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W4414487404