Regulation of spermatid polarity by the actin- and microtubule (MT)-based cytoskeletons

• Published in: Seminars in cell & developmental biology 2018-09, Vol.81, p.88-96
• Main Authors: Li, Linxi, Mao, Baiping, Wu, Siwen, Lian, Qingquan, Ge, Ren-shan, Silvestrini, Bruno, Cheng, C. Yan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Cell polarity; Epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis; Planar cell polarity; Sertoli cells; Spermatids; Spermatogenesis; Spermiogenesis; Testis
• ISSN: 1084-9521; 1096-3634
• DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2018.01.013

It is conceivable that spermatid apico-basal polarity and spermatid planar cell polarity (PCP) are utmost important to support spermatogenesis. The orderly arrangement of developing germ cells in particular spermatids during spermiogenesis are essential to obtain structural and nutrient supports from the fixed number of Sertoli cells across the limited space of seminiferous epithelium in the tubules following Sertoli cell differentiation by ∼17 day postpartum (dpp) in rodents and ∼12 years of age at puberty in humans. Yet few studies are found in the literature to investigate the role of these proteins to support spermatogenesis. Herein, we briefly summarize recent findings in the field, in particular emerging evidence that supports the concept that apico-basal polarity and PCP are conferred by the corresponding polarity proteins through their effects on the actin- and microtubule (MT)-based cytoskeletons. While much research is needed to bridge our gaps of understanding cell polarity, cytoskeletal function, and signaling proteins, a critical evaluation of some latest findings as summarized herein provides some important and also thought-provoking concepts to design better functional experiments to address this important, yet largely expored, research topic.