Testis and temperature: An historical, clinical, and research perspective

Abstract

The testis is remarkable as a biologic system for its functional regulation by temperature. Not only does the testis function optimally at a relatively cool temperature, but core body temperature is lethal to germ cells. This temperature sensitivity has implications for clinical medicine, both in terms of understanding pathologic states and for therapeutic measures. Perhaps most important, the relationship between testis and temperature presents great opportunities for further elucidation of cellular control mechanisms, particularly with regard to gametogenesis.