Testicular histopathology associated with disruption of the Sertoli cell cytoskeleton

Abstract

Testicular histological alterations following Sertoli cell cytoskeleton disruption are numerous. The Sertoli cell cytoskeleton is comprised of intermediate filaments, microtubules, microfilaments and their direct interacting proteins and performs essential functions including structural support of the seminiferous epithelium, apicobasal movement of elongate spermatids, and release of elongate spermatids from the seminiferous epithelium during spermiation. This review summarizes the histological changes occurring after disruption of the Sertoli cell cytoskeleton, including the signature lesion of seminiferous epithelium sloughing. By presenting examples of histological changes after exposure to toxins or toxicants directly affecting the Sertoli cell cytoskeleton or genetic manipulations of this cytoskeleton, the toxicologist observing similar histological changes associated with exposure to novel compounds can use this information to generate hypotheses about a potential mode of action.