Analysis of mRNA expression for interleukin-1 genes on human testicular cells.
We have investigated mRNA expression for IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta gene on fractionated human testicular cells. Using RT-PCR and Northern blot hybridization technique we detected the presence of IL-1 alpha transcripts, predominantly in the intratubular compartment of the testis, comprising gametogenic and Sertoli cells. We were also able to detect mRNA for IL-1 alpha on the testicular interstitium, but at significantly lower levels. The intertubular compartment of the testis, mainly consisting of macrophages and Leydig cells, appeared however, to be a site for IL-1 beta gene expression. Our experimental data confirm previous results obtained in animal models indicating that the testis is capable of producing interleukin-1 under physiological conditions. Testicular IL-1 may function as a tissue-specific factor modulating both spermato- and steroidogenic activity of human testis.
Janitz
M
M
Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
Fiszer
D
D
Lukaszyk
A
A
Skorupski
W
W
Kurpisz
M
M
D001483:Base Sequence; D015152:Blotting, Northern; D005786:Gene Expression Regulation / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D007375:Interleukin-1 / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000235:genetics*; D008297:Male; D008969:Molecular Sequence Data; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D013737:Testis / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism
D007375:Interleukin-1; D012333:RNA, Messenger