Differential gene expression profiles of human efferent ducts and proximal epididymis

Abstract

Background: Gene expression patterns along the epididymis are established by specific transcription factor networks that coordinate region-specific functions. In rodents, the epididymis can be divided in up to 19 segments. Based on gross anatomy, the human epididymis is divided into caput, corpus, and cauda segments together with efferent ducts that occupy the proximal part of this organ. Objectives: To determine to which extent gene expression pattern is segmented along the efferent ducts and the proximal region of the epididymis in men of reproductive age. Materials and methods: Epididymal transcriptome profiling was performed on eight distinct regions from three donors. Microarray analysis was performed on a gene-chip microarray. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs)>2-fold change (P