The Impact of Transforming Growth Factor-b1 on the men infertility

Abstract

The influence of cytokines in the reproductive system is becoming increasingly important. The major cytokines involved in the proliferative system are TGFβ-1 that performs many cellular functions, including controlling cell growth, cell proliferation, cell differentiation and apoptosis. Current information indicates a close interrelationship between immune and reproductive functions resulting from the participation of certain cytokines and their receptors. Cytokine-converting growth factor-b (TGF-b) is initially purified from human platelets, a rich source of this protein. In addition to platelets, TGF-b1 is also generated in other blood elements from these elements plasma (semen plasma) and circulating white blood cells. However, more than many years after the initial isolation of TGF-b1, there is no consensus on the amount of TGF-b1 present in normal human plasma. TGFb1 is considered as a critical regulator of reproductive tissue development and characteristic cyclic modification. The physiological significance of TGFb1 in reproductive biology and productivity has been extensively examined in Tgfb1 null mutant mice. Genetic deficiency of TGFb1 disrupts the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, inhibiting luteinizing hormone (LH) synthesis and leading to subsequent effects on testosterone production in males. These studies demonstrate the profound importance of TGFb1 in males and provide a basis for exploring the importance of this cytokine in Human infertility and sexual dysfunction.