Experimental Varicocele Induces p53-Dependent Germ Cell Apoptosis through Activation of γ-H2AX

초록

Aim: Since DNA damage-related apoptosis is raising concerns regarding abnormal spermatogenesis, we investigated the changes in gamma-H2AX during testicular germ cell apoptotic responses in the varicocele model. Materials and Methods: Varicocele was induced by partial ligation of the left renal vein and animals were sacrificed at 1, 3, and 4 weeks after varicocele creation. The levels of activated p53 and gamma-H2AX formation were determined by Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry. Results: gamma-H2AX formation was augmented after varicocele creation, while a significant increase in p53 phosphorylation was detected in a time course-dependent manner. Varicocele-dependent nuclear gamma-H2AX staining in the primary spermatocytes was prominent as degenerative foci, while little differences could be detected in spermatogonia. Conclusions: These results show that experimental varicocele may induce p53-dependent apoptosis through activation of gamma-H2AX in the primary spermatocytes, and suggest that gamma-H2AX may be related to apoptotic signal transduction in experimental varicocele. Copyright (C) 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel

키워드