Grant: Operating Grant

Leydig cells are located in the testis and produce two hormones that are indispensable for proper development of the male reproductive system: INSL3 and testosterone. INSL3 regulates testicular descent and testosterone is essential for the development of the male external genitalia, sex accessory glands, as well as production of mature sperm. Abnormal Leydig cell development and function results in insufficient hormone production leading to impaired male reproductive health. Despite the physiological importance of Leydig cells, the transcription factors controlling the development and function of these cells remain poorly understood. Transcription factors are proteins that bind to genes in order to regulate their expression. The goal of the present research project is to identify transcription factors regulating Leydig cell development and function. To do so, different but complementary in vitro and in vivo approaches will be used. Understanding these processes may eventually lead to better diagnosis and treatment of several human pathologies associated with defective Leydig cells and/or sex steroid hormone production.