Abstract
This chapter presents methods to examine changes in the pattern of isoforms during sexual development, and approaches to studying their localization within the various cellular compartments of the testis. To facilitate the latter, in addition to intact testes, methods for studies of Sertoli cell only (SCO) testes, Leydig cell tumors, and purified germ cell suspensions are also presented. The testis, like a wide range of other tissues, contains not one but several forms of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase; three of these appear to be low-k m , calmodulin-dependent isoforms. That these isoforms are not simply artifacts of the chromatographic procedure but distinct isoenzymes is based on differences in substrate specificity, kinetics, thermal stability, and reactions to calmodulin and trifluoperazine. The relatively specific cGMP is prominent in both adult intact and SCO testes, especially in the latter, is the major isoform in the Leydig cell tumor, but is absent in round spermatids. These observations suggest that this phosphodiesterase is more characteristic of the endocrine tissue of the testis rather than the germinal elements, possibly the Leydig cells.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call