Natriuretic peptides in the human testis : Evidence for a potential role of C-type natriuretic peptide in leydig cells

Functional studies indicate that natriuretic peptides have direct effects on Leydig cells of the testis. In this report, we demonstrate local synthesis of one member of the natriuretic peptide family, C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), in Leydig cells of human testes. Using RT-PCR assays, messenger R...

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Published in:The journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism 1996-12, Vol.81 (12), p.4324-4328
Main Authors: MIDDENDORFF, R, MÜLLER, D, PAUST, H. J, DAVIDOFF, M. S, MUKHOPADHYAY, A. K
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Biological and medical sciences
Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology
Guanylate Cyclase - analysis
Hormone metabolism and regulation
Humans
Leydig Cells - chemistry
Male
Mammalian male genital system
Middle Aged
Natriuretic Peptide, C-Type
Proteins - analysis
Proteins - genetics
Proteins - physiology
Receptors, Atrial Natriuretic Factor - analysis
RNA, Messenger - analysis
Vertebrates: reproduction
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Summary:Functional studies indicate that natriuretic peptides have direct effects on Leydig cells of the testis. In this report, we demonstrate local synthesis of one member of the natriuretic peptide family, C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), in Leydig cells of human testes. Using RT-PCR assays, messenger RNA (mRNA) for the CNP precursor was detected in human testis and found to be prominently expressed in Leydig cells. Immunohistochemical analyses revealed CNP to be almost exclusively associated with Leydig cells. Distinct differences in the staining intensity-including cells without detectable staining-suggest a heterogeneity of CNP expression within the Leydig cells. Moreover, the presence of transcripts for the CNP receptor, a particulate guanylate cyclase, termed GC-B, was demonstrated by RT-PCR in human testis and in isolated Leydig cells. The expression of this receptor in human testis membranes could be confirmed by affinity labeling with 125I-labeled CNP. These findings demonstrate, for the first time, the production of a natriuretic peptide in human Leydig cells. The occurrence of CNP and its receptor in the human testis points to a local role of the peptide, presumably acting in an auto- or paracrine manner to modulate organ-specific functions.
ISSN:0021-972X
1945-7197
DOI:10.1210/jc.81.12.4324