Rete Testis Research Articles

Diagnostic incidence and pitfalls of rete testis hyperplasia and hyaline globules in a multi-institutional study of 348 testicular germ cell tumors.

The concept of rete hyperplasia with hyaline globules simulating testicular yolk sac tumor was first reported in a mostly retrospective review over 30 years ago. Nonetheless, we continue to encounter examples where this scenario resulted in misdiagnosis. Herein, we sought to investigate the incidence of rete hyperplasia/hyaline globules in germ cell tumors and their associated subtypes and hypothesize an etiology. A consecutive series of 348 germ cell tumor orchiectomies was evaluated for the presence of rete hyperplasia and hyaline globules, with clinicopathologic features recorded. The incidence of rete hyperplasia and/or hyaline globules in our cohort was 30%, with 56% of specimens with rete hyperplasia containing concomitant hyaline globules. Hyaline globules were more often identified in specimens with nonfocal rete hyperplasia (78%) vs focal rete hyperplasia (22%). Absence of a yolk sac tumor component was seen in over half (61%) of orchiectomies with concurrent rete hyperplasia/hyaline globules (n = 105), inclusive of tumors with "pure" subtypes (ie, pure seminoma, pure teratoma, or pure embryonal carcinoma). Of these 105 specimens, rete invasion was seen in only 48%; notably, Paneth cell-like metaplasia was identified in efferent ductules/epididymis in 13%. Rete hyperplasia and hyaline globules are not uncommon findings in the setting of germ cell tumors (including occurrences in various pure/mixed germ cell tumors) and can show striking overlap with yolk sac tumor. We hypothesize that these histologic pitfalls evolve secondary to testicular obstruction by the tumor mass. Recognition of and distinguishing this morphologic mimicry is fundamental to guide appropriate clinical management.

Ultrastructural Characterization of Testis in Non-descript Goat (Capra hircus)

Background: The proposed experiment was aimed at locating the spermatogonial stem cell niches inside the testis and to characterise the development of germ cells of testis in the non- descript goats at the different stages of pre and post natal life, which could be useful in selecting the goats for breeding at appropriate time and for other interventions related to reproductive developments in the goats. Methods: The present study was conducted on the testes of non-descript goats divided into three groups, viz. neonatal (within 1 month), prepubertal (from 1-18 months) and pubertal (above 18 months) with 10 healthy animals in each group. The collected samples of testis were processed for scanning electron microscopic study and subsequently, the samples were viewed and the photographs were taken in the facility available at Central Instrumentation Facility (CIF), OUAT, Bhubaneswar. Result: The present study revealed that the testis was surrounded by the tunica albuginea, a thin capsule of connective tissue, from which thin septum originated and extended into the inside of the organ. Among these septa, the seminiferous tubules were found. The seminiferous epithelium consisted of spermatogonial cells at different stages of development separated from each other by interstitial connective tissue. The interstitium was made up of randomly arranged collagen bundles. The intertubular vascular connective tissue contained Leydig cells mainly at wider locations where they were bounded by more than two seminiferous tubules. The mediastinal rete testis area contained many cavities of many intercommunicating channels supported by connective tissue pillars. The present study helped in developing a baseline data on the ultrastructural characteristics of seminiferous epithelium, rete restis, peritubular cells, Lyedig cells and other components of testis in non-descript goat at different post natal stages under study. The appearance of seprmatogonial cell lineage at the various post natal stages in non-descript goat would help in accessing the reproductive status of the animal.

Cystic dysplasia of the rete testis in adulthood: a case report and review of the literature

Background: Rete testis dysplasia is a cystic anomaly arising from the rete testis presenting normally in the pediatric population. These cases usually regress spontaneously without the need for surgical intervention. There are rare, reported cases of rete testis dysplasia in adulthood, which have been managed surgically. Case presentation: A 58-year-old man presented with lower urinary tracts symptoms and found to have a slightly larger right testicle namely in the lower pole near the epididymis. Investigation was done using ultrasound of the testicles with Doppler showing an 8 mm cyst contained in 16.5×12.1 mm cystic dysplasia near the rete testis. MRI of the testicles revealed a small intratesticular cyst with adjacent band-like signals, in keeping with rete testis dysplasia. This patient was placed under surveillance and the rete testis dysplasia is stable after 6 months and will not be operated on unless progression on ultrasound is encountered. Clinical discussion: The management of cystic dysplasia of the rete testis has been evolving with time. While there have never been clear-cut guidelines on the treatment of this condition, a radical orchiectomy of the affected testicle had traditionally been the preferred treatment option. There have only been three case reports of cystic dysplasia of the rete testis in adults, none of which are known to have been managed by observation. Conclusion: In conclusion, the authors report a unique case of rete testis dysplasia being managed conservatively showing the benign features of such a pathology, which may be actively surveyed through sequential imaging.

Microanatomy of the Testes and Male Genital Ducts of Banded Krait Bungarus fasciatus (Schneider, 1801)

The Banded krait is a species of venomous snakes that ranks among the top 5 in Thailand, with a significance role as a predator for controlling other animals. Despite numerous studies on the ecology, the microanatomy of body systems has still not reported clearly. The present study was to investigate the microanatomy of the testes and male genital ducts of Banded krait that collected from Phatthalung Province, Thailand. The snakes were collected after anesthetized, and their testes and genital ducts were fixed in Bouin’s fixative. The reproductive organs were collected during July to October 2022, and were sectioned of 5-µm-thick pieces for staining with Harris’s hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), periodic acid Schiff’s (PAS), alcian blue (AB) pH 2.5 and pH 1.0, bromophenol blue (BB) and Masson’s trichrome (MT). The testes contained the seminiferous tubules with 7 stages of germ cells: (I) type A spermatogonium, (II) type B spermatogonium, (III) primary spermatocyte, (IV) secondary spermatocyte, (V) round spermatid, (VI) elongated spermatid and (VII) spermatozoa. Besides, Sertoli and Leydig’s cells were appeared in the seminiferous tubules and the interstitial area, respectively. During the sampling period, the spermatozoa were observed in the seminiferous tubules and genital ducts. The extra-testicular rete testis, ductuli efferentes and ductus epididymis were embedded in the epididymal sheath. The epithelial cells of rete testis, ductus epididymis, as well as ductus deferens possessed microvilli, whereas those of the ductuli efferentes composed of cilia. The epithelial cells of all portions showed the positive staining with PAS and BB due to the presence of neutral glycoproteins and proteins, respectively, and the negative staining for AB pH 2.5 and pH 1.0 because of the absence of acidic glycoproteins. HIGHLIGHTS During the sampling period from July to October, the Banded Krait exhibited active spermatogenesis The rete testis could be divided into 2 portions: intra-rete testis and extra-rete testis The ductus epididymis was divided into 3 portions: proximal, middle and distal ductus epididymis All portions of the male genital ducts, the epithelium showed the secretion of neutral glycoproteins and proteins without sulfated and carboxylated glycoproteins GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Histological Study of Development Structure of Testis and Epididymis in Gazelle Gazelle Subgutturosa

Objective: The aim of this study for focused the light on the development structure of the testis of gazelle. Materials and Method: 10 healthy male gazelle were used to study the histology structure of testis (5 pre- Puberty and 5 post- Puberty). Results: The testis is surrounded by a thick, irregular connective tissue capsule. Each lobule of the testis is composed of seminiferous tubules and interstitial tissue, and trabecular and interlobular septa divide the lobules apart. Neighboring the seminiferous tubules are Sertoli cells and spermatogenic cells. From spermatogenic cells, spermatozoa are produced. The first spermatogonia are small, spherical cells with black, spherical nuclei that reside on the basement membrane. Spermatogonia were earliest stages of the spermatogenic cells. Larger cells with frequently distinct chromatin are called primary spermatocytes. Secondary spermatocytes are rare because of their quick second meiotic division and the haploid spermatids that follow. Spermatids are round, pale-nucleated cells that are grouped close to the lumen of the seminiferous tubule. Prostatogenic cells outnumber Sertoli cells in the body. Oval or triangular in shape, the nucleus has a light coloration. In the connective tissue separating adjacent tubules, Leydig cells are present. Lines the epididymis are pseudostratified epithelium. Extensions of the cytoplasm into the lumen are called stereocilia. In different proportions, there is circular smooth muscle, and a connective tissue lamina propria supports the epithelium. The rete testis is connected to the ductus epididymidis by the efferent ductules, which are convolutions of tubules. Numerous valved veins were visible in the tunica albuginea, which covered the initial ascending portion of the epididymal head. Cuboidal epithelium was lining extratesticular rete testis. Three different cell types; migrating, basal, and columnar had epithelial membranes lining the efferent ductules. Many columnar, non-ciliated cells with many cytoplasmic vacuoles and tiny granules lined the epithelium of the first segment of the efferent ductules. Conclusion: In post-puberty age, the structure of the gazelle's testis exhibited a pattern resembling that of other ruminants; the seminiferous tubules contain adult sperm and a broad lumen.

Pure intertubular seminoma (PITS) of the testis: A multi-institutional cohort of a rare growth pattern of seminoma

Pure intertubular seminoma (PITS) of the testis is described as the presence of seminoma cells within the interstitium of testis without any evidence of diffuse growth pattern or mass lesion of classical seminoma. These tumors are clinically and grossly inconspicuous and are diagnosed incidentally or during investigations for testicular pain, infertility or other symptoms. Rarely metastasis is the first presentation. Microscopic identification can be difficult and poses a diagnostic challenge in the absence of a mass lesion. Seminomas with exclusive intertubular growth patterns were gathered in an international cohort. Diagnoses were confirmed by fellowship-trained or specialized urologic pathologists. Cases with the presence of a classical diffuse or nested pattern of seminoma or any other germ cell tumor component were excluded. The patient's age, tumor characteristics and additional clinicopathologic features were recorded and analyzed. 15 patients of pure intertubular seminoma (PITS) were collated. The mean age of presentation was 29 years. Patients presented with variable symptoms, including undescended testis (26%, n = 4/15), testicular heaviness/pain (20%, n = 3/15) infertility (20%, n = 3/15) and metastasis (6%, n = 1/15); presentation was unknown in 4 patients. Of note, none of the patients presented because of testicular mass. Serum markers were within normal limits in most patients (93%, n = 14/15) with available data. No tumors were identified macroscopically; however, an ill-defined, grey-white, firm area was noted in one orchiectomy specimen. Microscopically, tumor cells were seen in intertubular spaces as dispersed individual cells or small clusters. Tumor cells were round to polygonal with large nuclei and prominent nucleoli. Mild to moderate lymphocytic infiltrates were seen admixed with tumor cells in 40% (n = 6/15) of the tumors. GCNIS was present in association with most PITS (73%, n = 11/15). Tubular atrophy with thickening of the basement membrane and Leydig cell hyperplasia was observed in one tumor. Thirty-three percent (n = 5/15) of the tumors showed pagetoid involvement of rete testis, including the tumor with metastasis. All tumors showed the classical immunohistochemical profile of seminoma, with PLAP, c-KIT, OCT3/4, D2-40 and SALL4 positivity. PITS can be clinically & pathologically inconspicuous, difficult to stage and liable to be misdiagnosed especially if presented with metastasis. Despite the inconspicuousness, PITS may represent an aggressive growth pattern of seminoma with the propensity for rete testis invasion.

Thyroid Hormone Regulates Postnatal Development of the Rete Testis in Mice.

Thyroid hormone regulates the rate of testis maturation in mammals. Manipulations of thyroid hormone levels in neonatal animals affect various aspects of testis biology. However, there were no studies examining the effects of thyroid hormone on the rete testis (RT). Here, we used animal models of neonatal hyperthyroidism (injections of triiodothyronine, or T3) and hypothyroidism (goitrogen PTU treatment) and found that higher levels of thyroid hormone accelerate RT development, while lower levels of thyroid hormone delay it. T3 and PTU treatments influence RT size, proliferation of RT cells, and expression of DMRT1 and androgen receptor in the RT. T3 supplementation accelerates RT development in an organ testicular culture, which indicates the local action of thyroid hormone. Additionally, it was found that follicle stimulated hormone could be involved in the regulation of both RT proliferation and RT size. The fact that RT cells in a cell culture do not respond to T3 suggests indirect action of thyroid hormone on the RT in vivo or the loss of the responsiveness to the hormone in vitro.

Testicular tumors in commercial boars with infertility: A gross, histologic, and immunohistochemical study.

Tumors in boars are uncommon, and testicular tumors even rarer. This study describes the pathological and immunohistochemical characteristics of a case series of testicular tumors in commercial boars with fertility problems. Tumors were detected in 19 of 333 animals (19/333, 5.9%). Macroscopically, tumors were observed in 13 (13/19, 68%) boars, while 6 cases (6/19, 32%) were only detected by microscopic examination. Testicular enlargement was observed in 1 boar, while in the others, tumors were only observed after removal of the scrotal skin or after sectioning of the testis. Histologically, tumors were classified as seminomas (16/19, 84%), mixed germ cell-stromal tumors (2/19, 11%), and B-cell lymphoma (1/19, 5%). Seminomas had 3 different growth patterns: intratubular (6/16, 38%), diffuse (4/16, 25%), and intratubular/diffuse (6/16, 38%). All tumors that were not evident on macroscopic examination were intratubular seminomas. Intratesticular metastases were observed in 2 cases and extratesticular metastases, located in the pampiniform plexus, were observed in 1 case. In 1 seminoma, the rete testis was also involved. By immunohistochemistry, all intratubular seminomas were negative for c-kit, cytokeratin, and vimentin. In diffuse seminomas, c-kit and cytokeratin were also negative, while vimentin showed granular or perinuclear cytoplasmic labeling in some areas. PAX-5 and CD-3 antibodies classified the lymphoma as a B-cell lymphoma. This study suggests that testicular tumors in boars may be more common than previously reported, especially when microscopic examination is performed. It also shows that testicular tumors in pigs are predominantly seminomas.

Electro osmotic flow of nanofluids within a porous symmetric tapered ciliated channel

AbstractIn this investigation, a comprehensive study has been made to reveal electro osmosis flow through a tapered ciliated symmetric porous channel. The flow is initiated due to metachronal dynamics of cilia. Axial electric field is deployed and thermal radiation phenomenon is scrutinised by applying convective conditions. The equations tackling the flow are non dimensionalized and simplified by capitalizing the low Reynolds number and long wave length approximations. Analytical solution is presented for well reputed Poissson equation and the axial velocity. Whereas, traverse velocity, temperature and nanofluids concentration profiles are examined numerically in MATHEMATICA. Variation of emerging crucial parameters on the velocity profile, temperature and concentration profiles, pressure gradient, pressure rise per wavelength, and on the velocity distribution inside the micro ciliated are exhibited with the aid of graphical deliberations. It worth to mention in this work that in case of tapered channel transverse velocity also has significant contribution in the flow, which is observed trivial in symmetric and non‐symmetric channel flows. Temperature of the nanofluid in the ciliated tapered channel is raised with permeability and thermal radiations phenomena and can be controlled with Helmholtz Smoluchowski velocity, and electroosmotic parameter. Pumping phenomena is affected with increase in Helmholtz Smoluchowski velocity and permeability. Reported investigation cover a informative insight about biological fluid system, may be beneficial for the understanding the flow through ductus efferentes of human reproductive tract since it assumed that cilia are responsible for the transport of sperm from rete testis to the epididymis, also have worth in cilia designed bio‐sensors and in certain drug delivery systems.

Clear Cell Carcinomas of Müllerian Type and Rete Testis Origin Presenting as Scrotal Masses: A Study of Seven Cases.

Ovarian-type epithelial tumors involving the testis and paratestis are rare, with clear cell carcinomas (CCC) one of the least frequent. We report our experience with 4 müllerian-type (MT) CCCs presenting as testicular/scrotal masses and arising in the paratestis (n=2) and seminal vesicle (n=2; well supported in 1 case and likely in the other). In addition, we document 3 cases of papillary CCC exclusively within the rete testis (RTCCC) and seminiferous tubules and differing from the MT tumors. The patients with MTCCC were 24 to 85 years old (median, 42y), and 2 had metastases at presentation. The 2 originating in the paratestis were associated with other MT tumors, an endometrioid borderline tumor and a papillary serous borderline tumor. The other 2 MTCCCs likely involved the testis via extension from seminal vesicle primaries through the vasa deferentia. All MTCCCs showed typical features, including tubules, simple papillae with hyalinized cores, and solid nests of polygonal clear cells with occasional hobnail features. Both paratesticular primaries showed sarcomatoid foci with tumor-associated neutrophilic infiltrates. The 3 RTCCCs presented in 54-, 57-, and 60-year-old men as testicular masses; they showed intrarete arborizing papillary growth with nonhyalinized fibrous cores and piled-up, solid foci, lacked hobnail cells, and expressed carbonic anhydrase IX (2/2) and CD10 (2/2) but not CA125, unlike the MTCCCs. On follow-up, 2 patients with MTCCC died of metastatic tumor (4 and 13.5mo), a third developed ileal and retroperitoneal metastases at 13 months; and the fourth died at 13.5 months of unspecified cause. Follow-up of 2 patients with RTCCCs showed 1 disease free at 8 months and another alive with unknown disease status at 13 years. We conclude that CCCs involving the testis may either be of MT with often aggressive courses or show some features of renal tumors, with confinement to the rete testis and indolent behavior.

Micro-RNA-371a-3p in Germ Cell Testicular Tumors on Diagnosis: A Prospective Case-Control Study in Turkish Population.

We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the miRNA-371a-3p for the primary diagnosis of germ cell tumors (GCT) and to investigate its relationship with pathological factors and clinical stage in the Turkish population. In this prospective study, a total of 60 patients with GCTs, and 40 healthy male controls were examined for serum levels of miRNA-371a-3p before orchiectomy and again two weeks after surgery. The miRNA-371a-3p, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (bHCG) levels in the preoperative and postoperative periods were compared at different clinical stages. Receiver operating characteristics curve analyses were performed to determine the sensitivity and specificity of miRNA-371a-3p. Clinical and pathological factors such as clinical stage (CS), tumor size, histology, rete testis invasion, and lymphovascular invasion, potentially impacting miRNA-371a-3p expression levels (relative quantity, RQ), were evaluated statistically. The sensitivity of miR-371a-3p in GCT patients was 98.3%, and the specificity was 95% (AUC = 0.997 [95%Cl:0.99-1], p < .001). miR-371a-3p expression was not detected in two patients with teratoma. The median miR-371a-3p RQ was 489 times in GCT and 2.2 times in the Control group (p < .001). In the postoperative period, there was a significant decrease in AFP and bHCG levels in all CS-1 (p = .01) and 30% of the other CS (p = .3). Throughout this time there was a decrease of 19 times at the miR-371a-3p RQ in CS-1(p < .001) and 1.6 times in the other CS (p < .001). The miR-371a-3p RQs were correlated with tumor size and CS. The miR-371a-3p seems to have higher diagnostic accuracy than classical serum tumor markers in GCT.

Cystic dysplasia of the rete testis

Cystic dysplasia of the rete testis is a benign tumor of the testis, which occurs most frequently in pediatric age and is often accompanied by renal anomalies. It is necessary to differentiate this condition from malignant testicular tumors. Different approaches, such as orchiectomy, testis-sparing surgery, or conservative follow-up, can be utilized in treatment. Herein, we reported a five-year-old patient with cystic dysplasia of the rete testis who was admitted with scrotal pain and underwent orchiectomy.

Three-dimensional analysis of partial restoration of spermatogenesis in vitamin A-deficient mice.

An animal model of the partial restoration of spermatogenesis may be useful in the field of reproductive biology and medicine. Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) induces the restorable arrest of spermatogenesis at the level of spermatogonia and is used as a mouse model of spermatogenesis disorder. We aimed to establish an animal model in which spermatogenesis is partially restored by switching a vitamin A deficiency diet to a normal vitamin A-containing diet and conduct a comprehensive analysis to identify vulnerable sites in the seminiferous tubules that affect the efficient restoration of spermatogenesis in this model. Mice fed a vitamin A deficiency diet until 12weeks old and then reared with a normal diet for 15weeks served as the restoration model. We performed three-dimensional reconstructions of the seminiferous tubules and analyzed the three-dimensional distribution of restored spermatogenesis throughout the testis. Fifteen weeks after the switch to the normal diet, spermatogenesis was restored in 78% of the length of seminiferous tubules. The percentage of restored spermatogenesis was lower in longer seminiferous tubules. An analysis of the distribution of spermatogenesis throughout the testis in this model revealed that it was restored less in portions of seminiferous tubules near the rete testis and hairpin curves and also in those located in the caudal region of the testis. These sites tended to correspond to sites with fewer spermatogonia in the vitamin A deficiency testis. We established an animal model of the partial restoration of spermatogenesis and examined the three-dimensional distribution of restored spermatogenesis in seminiferous tubules. The results obtained provide insights into the mechanisms underlying spermatogenesis disorders and may contribute to better clinical practices, such as the screening of drugs or therapeutic interventions for human male infertility and improvements in fertility preservation techniques for individuals undergoing chemotherapy.

Prognostıc Factors In Testıcular Cancer

Aim: Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 15-35 years and accounts for 1% of all lifetime male cancers. There are two histologic subtypes: seminoma and nonseminoma. In our study, we aimed to investigate the factors predicting recurrence in early-stage testicular cancer. Materials and Methods: Our study is a retrospective study of early stage testicular cancer admitted to the medical oncololi clinic of our hospital between 2006-2018. During the study, 344 patient files were reviewed and 130 patients who met the study criteria were included in the study. Our primary aim in this study was to investigate the factors predictive of recurrence in early stage testicular cancer. Results: When evaluating PFS in patients with nonseminoma with and without lymphovascular invasion, no median PFS value was reached in either group. However, PFS was worse in patients with LVI (p=0.037). When comparing stage 1 with stage 2 seminoma patients, no median PFS values could be reached, but there was a statistical difference between the two groups in terms of recurrence (p=0.019). Conclusions: In our study, we found no association between tumor size, embryonal carcinoma predominance, tunica albuginea invasion, spermatic cord involvement and tumor marker values and recurrence in nonseminoma germ cell testicular tumors. PFS was shorter in patients with LVI compared to those without LVI. Lymphovascular invasion, spermatic cord involvement, tunica albuginea involvement, and rete testis involvement were not associated with disease recurrence in seminoma patients, whereas higher disease stage predicted the risk of recurrence.

Male genital system of Ameiva ameiva (Squamata: Teiidae).

Understanding squamate reproductive morphology is crucial for investigating ecological, behavioral, and evolutionary questions. Here, we describe the anatomy and histology of the male genital system of Ameiva ameiva from southeastern Brazil. Ten adult males were dissected to characterize genital macroscopy and collect fragments of the testes, gonadoducts, and kidneys for histological examination. We examined 10 transverse histological sections per individual and measured the epithelial height of the epididymis and ductus deferens. The male reproductive system consists of a pair of yellowish oval testes, the rete testis, ductuli efferentes, epididymis, ductus deferens, ampulla ductus deferentis, sexual segment of the kidney (SSK), cloaca, and hemipenis. The hemipenis is elongated, cylindrical, and unilobed, with a sulcate face and an asulcate face, which has continuous fringes throughout its length. Seminiferous tubules exhibited germ cells at various stages. The epididymis is wider and more coiled than the ductus deferens. The rete testis has a simple squamous epithelium with long stereocilia, while the narrower ductuli efferentes are lined by a simple ciliated cuboidal epithelium. The epididymal epithelium is pseudostratified columnar, with basal and ciliated principal cells, whereas the ductus deferens epithelium is pseudostratified to simple cuboidal. The epididymal epithelium is 1.5 times taller than the ductus deferens epithelium. Here, we observed the SSK present in the cortex of the ventral region of the kidneys due to the hypertrophy of the distal convoluted tubules, as well as its secretory activity. Our findings will contribute to future research into the evolution of squamate reproductive morphology.

The immunolocalization of adiponectin and its receptors in the testis of the frog Pelophylax bergeri

In all vertebrates, reproductive strategies are achieved by modulation of the neuroendocrine system in a similar manner and with minor variations among the different classes. Most of the available information on amphibian testicular cycles derive from anurans, and among these, water frogs have been extensively studied in terms of reproductive mechanisms and sex steroid correlation. Adiponectin (AdipoQ) and its receptors—AdipoR1 and AdipoR2—are essential for most of the normal testicular and sperm functions. In this study, the identification of AdipoQ and its two receptors was carried out by immunohistochemistry in the testis of adult males of Pelophylax bergeri. The AdipoQ system was observed in the frog spermatogenic cysts, in both germinal and Sertoli cells, as well as in the rete testis. AdipoQ and AdipoR1 were localized in germ-line cells, from spermatogonia to round spermatids, while AdipoR2 was detected in the elongated spermatids, spermatozoa, and Sertoli cells. AdipoR1 was also observed in the intratesticular canals of the rete testis. This preliminary study shows the AdipoQ system’s presence in the anurans’ testis. The results obtained could be a starting point for future functional studies aimed at defining the physiological role of the AdipoQ system in frog testicular functions.

Preoperative level of sex hormones as a predictor (prognostic factor) of the morphological characteristics of testicular malignancies

Introduction. Testicular cancer (TC) mostly affect young men of reproductive age. Several studies have shown correlation between the level of sex hormones in testicular cancer and serum tumor markers. However, currently, the relationship between hormone levels before orchidectomy and the clinical and pathomorphological characteristics of the tumor has not been sufficiently studied. Aim of the study: to analyze the relationship between hormone levels and the clinical stage and histological characteristics of the tumor in patients with testicular cancer and to develop prognostic models. Material and Methods. This prospective single-center study included 66 patients with testicular cancer. Localized, locally advanced and metastatic testicular cancer was diagnosed in 55 (83.3 %), 9 (13.6 %) and 2 (3.0 %) patients, respectively. A preoperative assessment of hormones such as total and free testosterone (T), estradiol (E2)), gonadotropic hormones (LH, FLH, Prolactin) and b-HCG was carried out. Patients were divided into 2 groups depending on the histological structure of the tumor: seminoma (n=31) and non-seminoma (n=35). The following parameters were assessed: tumor size, lymphovascular invasion and rete testis invasion. Results. In non-seminoma tumors, the values of sex hormones and beta-hCG were higher, but the values of gonadotropic hormones were lower compared with typical seminomas (p&lt;0.05). High concentrations of b-HCG were observed predominantly in pT3 compared to pT1 stages (p=0.018). Correlation analysis revealed a connection between total (ρ=0.351; p=0.004) and free T (ρ=0.342; p=0.008), E2 (ρ=0.292; p=0.022), b-HCG (ρ=0.244; p= 0.048), LH (ρ=-0.287; p=0.039), FSH (ρ=-0.264; p=0.04) and the size of the primary tumor. The presence of rete testis invasion was accompanied by a low LH value and a high b-HCG value compared to patients without this prognostic parameter (p=0.015, p&lt;0.001, respectively). Prognostic models were developed to determine the probability of histological structure and the presence of rete testis invasion (p&lt;0.001) with high sensitivity (82.1 % and 76.5 %) and specificity (76.9 % and 100 %). Conclusion. The findings suggest that non-seminoma tumors are associated with changes in the pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. The high values of sex hormones and low values of gonadotropic hormones before orchidectomy are associated with a large size of the primary tumor. Additionally, a low LH value and a high b-HCG value are predictors of rete testis invasion. High b-HCG levels are associated with more aggressive tumor biology and poor prognosis.

Cellular senescence in testicular cancer. Is there a correlation with the preoperative markers and the extent of the tumor? An experimental study.

The aim of this experimental study is to investigate the correlation between the presence of senescent cells and the tumor size, the lymphovascular invasion (LVI), the invasion of rete testis (RTI), the preoperative tumor markers or pathological stage in patients who underwent orchiectomy for malignant purposes. This experimental study included patients with a history of radical orchiectomy performed from January 2011 to January 2019. The testicular tissue specimens underwent an immunohistopathological process for the detection of the presence of cellular senescence. Besides, the tumor size, the histopathological type, the pathological stage of the tumor and the presence of Lymphovascular (LVI) or rete testis (RTI) invasions were also recorded. Additionally, the preoperative serum levels of alpha-fetoprotein, beta-human chorionic gonadotropin and lactate dehydrogenase were recorded. After the completion of immunohistochemical analysis, the rate of senescent cells in each specimen was also recorded. The mean senescent cell rate was estimated to be 14.11 ± 11.32% and 15.46 ± 10.58% in patients with presence of LVI or absence of LVI, respectively (p = 0.46). The mean senescent cell rate was calculated at 18.13±12.26% and 12.56 ± 9.38% (p = 0.096) in patients with presence of RTI or absence of RTI, respectively. The mean senescent cell rate in the pT1 group was calculated at 14.58 ± 9.82%, while in T2 and T3 groups the mean senescent cell rate was estimated to be 15.22 ± 12.03% and 15.35 ± 14.21%, respectively (p = 0.98). A statistically significant correlation was detected between the senescence rate and the tumor size (Pearson score 0.40, p = 0.027) and between the rate of senescent cells and the preoperative level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (Pearson score -0.53, p = 0.002). The presence of cellular senescence was correlated with the extent of the testicular tumor in terms of tumor size as well as the preoperative level of the LDH serum marker.

Unmasking the unexpected: Testicular tumour uncovered as a result of scrotal trauma

AbstractWe present a case of a 17‐year‐old male with a testicular tumour diagnosed after trauma. A 17‐year‐old male patient came to our clinic with swelling in the right hemiscrotum. The patient had a history of right scrotal blunt trauma 3 weeks before the admission and had no history of urological surgery or chronic disease. The patient doesn't use tobacco, alcohol, or illicit drugs. Genitourinary system examination revealed swelling and tenderness on palpation in the right hemiscrotum. The right testicle was not palpable. The left hemiscrotum was normal. The left testicle had a normal size and shape. Testicular tumour markers were high (AFP:196 μg/L (N: 0–8 μg/L), b‐HCG: 916 mIU/mL (N: &lt;10 mIU/mL), LDH: 364 U/L (N: 0–265 U/L). Scrotal ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed that there were areas of 9 × 9 × 11 cm in size of the right scrotal region without viable testis tissue, hematoma area, and areas compatible with necrosis. These findings were related to intratesticular rupture due to trauma. Abdominal tomography revealed lymphadenopathies of approximately 6 × 3 cm in the anterior paracaval area and approximately 4 × 3 cm in the anterior aspect of the psoas muscle. We performed right radical inguinal orchiectomy on the patient. Testicular tumour markers were still high on the 8th postoperative day (AFP:120 μg/L (N: 0–8 μg/L), bHCG: 680 mIU/mL (N: &lt;10 mIU/mL), LDH: 200 U/L (N: 0–265 U/L)). The testicular tumour was diagnosed as mixed germ cell tumour (50% Yolk Sac, 30% Embryonal Carcinoma, 20% Teratoma). The tumour diameter was 9 cm, surgical margins were intact, there was rete testis invasion, and no tumour was detected in the tunica vaginalis. No tumour invasion was seen in the soft tissue around the spermatic cord (pT2). The patient received 3 cycles of chemotherapy with bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin. We suggest that patients presenting with scrotal trauma should be carefully evaluated for testicular malignancy, and if malignancy is suspected, radical inguinal orchiectomy should be preferred for the operation.

Balanced spatiotemporal arrangements of histone H3 and H4 posttranslational modifications are necessary for meiotic prophase I chromosome organization.

Dynamic nuclear architecture and chromatin organizations are the key features of the mid-prophase I in mammalian meiosis. The chromatin undergoes major changes, including meiosis-specific spatiotemporal arrangements and remodeling, the establishment of chromatin loop-axis structure, pairing, and crossing over between homologous chromosomes, any deficiencies in these events may induce genome instability, subsequently leading to failure to produce gametes and infertility. Despite the significance of chromatin structure, little is known about the location of chromatin marks and the necessity of their balance during meiosis prophase I. Here, we show a thorough cytological study of the surface-spread meiotic chromosomes of mouse spermatocytes for H3K9,14,18,23,27,36, H4K12,16 acetylation, and H3K4,9,27,36 methylation. Active acetylation and methylation marks on H3 and H4, such as H3K9ac, H3K14ac, H3K18ac, H3K36ac, H3K56ac, H4K12ac, H4K16ac, and H3K36me3 exhibited pan-nuclear localization away from heterochromatin. In comparison, repressive marks like H3K9me3 and H3K27me3 are localized to heterochromatin. Further, taking advantage of the delivery of small-molecule chemical inhibitors methotrexate(heterochromatin enhancer), heterochromatin inhibitor, anacardic acid (histone acetyltransferase inhibitor), trichostatin A (histone deacetylase inhibitor), IOX1 (JmjC demethylases inhibitor), and AZ505 (methyltransferase inhibitor) in seminiferous tubules through the rete testis route, revealed that alteration in histone modifications enhanced the centromere mislocalization, chromosome breakage, altered meiotic recombination and reduced sperm count. Specifically, IOX1 and AZ505 treatment shows severe meiotic phenotypes, including altering chromosome axis length and chromatin loop size via transcriptional regulation of meiosis-specific genes. Our findings highlight the importance of balanced chromatin modifications in meiotic prophase I chromosome organization and instability.