Characterization of a nonhuman primate model for the study of testicular peritubular cells – comparison with human testicular cells

Smooth-muscle-like peritubular cells make up the wall of semniferous tubules of men. These human testicular peritubular cells (HTPC) have been shown to fulfill different roles. They transport sperm, secrete various factors like GDNF (glial cell line derived neurotrophic factor) and are immunologically active. They might contribute to spermatogonial stem cell niche altering and testicular ageing. Previous studies were limited regarding heterogeneity (due to lifestyle, age, medical history etc.) and accessibility of HTPCs. To circumvent this problem a cellular primate model should be established. The proteome of 6 MKTPCs of individual healthy and young (2 or 3 years) donors was assessed to investigate the suitability as a model.