Cell–Cell Interactions—Molecular
Abstract
The adult testis is responsible for producing different hormones, among which male sex steroids, as well as male gametes. Steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis take place in two morphologically and functionally distinct compartments of the testis. Still, these two compartments are tightly connected and involve a permanent communication between several somatic cell types and germ cells at various stages of differentiation. The underlying molecular mechanisms include locally-produced hormones, secreted proteins, diffusible organic compounds, as well as direct cell–cell contacts. This article intends to illustrate aspects of the extreme complexity of this cell interaction network by presenting some of the well-characterized communication pathways at play within the testis.