engleski

LEYDIG CELLS, TESTIS VOLUME AND SPERMATOGENESIS IN PATIENTS WITH NONOBSTRUCTIVE AZOOSPERMIA

In males, Leydig cells are responsible for more than 95% of androgen production. Th e aim of our study was: (a) to assess morphological features and testosterone production in situ of Leydig cells in infertile patients ; and (b) to correlate the above-mentioned Leydig cell parameters with testis volume and spermatogenesis. In total, 120 testicular biopsies were used (12 controls and 108 specimens from patients with non-obstructive azoospermia). Th e morphology of Leydig cells was assessed by semi-thin and ultrathin sections (transmission electron microscopy). Testosterone production in situ was visualized by immunohistochemistry, followed by morphometric (stereological)analysis. Testicular volume was determined by ultrasound and/or orchidometer, and the status of spermatogenesis by applying Johnsen’s scoring system. Patients with non-obstructive azoospermia exhibited statistically signifi cantly lower values of testicular volume and score. Morphological analysis indicated that some Leydig cells displayed an extensive change of the nucleus and cytoplasm, whereas the number of testosterone-producing cells was signifi cantly lower in azoospermia cases. Based on our results, patients with azoospermia have signifi cant changes in the morphology of Leydig cells and their capacity to produce testosterone. Some of these patients could be candidates for premature andropause

Leydig cells; testis; spermatogenesis; non-obstructive azoospermia

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