Localization and transcript levels of TSEG-1 in mouse cryptorchidism model

Abstract

Objective To explore the cellular localization and transcript levels of testis specific expressed gene 1 (TSEG-1) in mouse crytorchidism model. Methods Forty-six male Kunming neonatal mice were divided into control (n=10), propylene glycol injection (n=15) and 17-estradiol injection (n=21) groups. The morpgological changes of testes were observed by HE staining. The localization and transcriptional levels of TSEG-1 were measured by in situ hybridization, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results Subcu-taneous injection of 17-estradiol induced cryptorchidism in mice. Meanwhile, no cryptrochidism was found in propylene glycol and normal control groups. Compared with normal controls, 80% serminous tubules disappeared, spermatogenic cells in Ⅰ-Ⅳ stages were reduced, there was nuclei shrinkage of 60% sper-matocytes and spermatids, and 90% impaired spermatogenesis in 17-estradiol injection group. The expres-sion levels of TSEG-1 mRNA were increased significantly in control group, mainly localizing in spermato-cytes and early spermatids. The trauscripts of TSEG-1 in 17-estradiol-induced cryptorchidism model were down-regulated to 1/25 of nomal controls. Conclusion Cryptorchidism model was successfully induced by subcutaneous injection of 17-estradiol. The novel gene TSEG-1 may play a role in the pathogenesis of cryp-torchidism. Key words: 17-estradiol; Cryptorchidism; Testis specific expressed gene-1