[Desert hedgehog regulates the proliferation and differentiation of Leydig cells: an update]

Zhonghua Nan Ke Xue. 2012 Feb;18(2):172-5.
[Article in Chinese]

Abstract

Hedgehog signaling pathway plays an important role in regulating the development of endocrine glands. Desert hedgehog (Dhh) has become a recent focus for its regulation of testis development, especially of Leydig cells. Dhh, as a Sertoli cell product, regulates the proliferation and differentiation of Leydig cell lineage and functions to secrete testosterone through a paracrine signaling mechanism. Testosterone, as the most important sex hormone of the male, plays a critical role in testis development, spermatogenesis and maintenance of normal masculinization. Therefore, normal Dhh signaling pathway ensures normal spermatogenic function. Researches on the Hedgehog signaling pathway in the testis have a potential significance for studying the pathophysiological mechanisms of androgen deficiency and dyszoospermia, as well as for the clinical treatment of these diseases.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Hedgehog Proteins / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Leydig Cells / cytology*
  • Male
  • Signal Transduction*
  • Spermatogenesis
  • Testis / cytology
  • Testis / metabolism*

Substances

  • Hedgehog Proteins