Transcription Factors as Regulators of Gene Expression During Leydig Cell Differentiation and Function

Abstract

Transcription factors are at the center stage of several cellular processes, in which they play essential roles as receivers, interpreters, and conveyers of numerous extracellular signals. These signals are the cues to which cells must respond and transcription factors are indispensable to translate these sig- nals into a genomic response. Depending on the signal, dif- ferent transcription factors will be solicited leading to unique combinatorial interactions, or codes, required for the activa- tion of specific sets of genes ultimately, triggering cell prolif- eration, specification, differentiation, function, or death. As for most cell types found throughout the body, testicular Leydig cells have a unique function; they produce the hor- mones (insulin-like 3 and testosterone) required for fertility and maleness in men. Several signals, such as hormones and signaling molecules, have been identified as important regula- tors of Leydig cell differentiation and function. Downstream of these signals are transcription factors. The aim of this chapter is to provide a description of the various families of transcrip- tion factors, which have been identified as regulators of Leydig cell gene expression and function.