The role of primary cilia in the testis

Abstract

A better understanding of the role primary cilia play in the testis is becoming increasingly important in the context of male reproductive health since defects in cilia have been associated with male infertility and reproductive disorders. Primary cilia are found on most somatic cell types within the testis, including Sertoli cells, peritubular myoid cells, and Leydig cells, especially during embryonic and neonatal stages. Primary cilia are involved in signaling pathways that are important for differentiation and function of testicular somatic cells, and cilia are also implicated in testicular morphogenesis. These observations indicate that testicular primary cilia play an integral role in regulating testis development and function.