Spermatogenesis is a complex process in which Sertoli cells play a pivotal role. Sertoli cells are closely related to testicular development and male fertility by providing nutrition for the proliferation of germ cells and maintaining the balance of microenvironment in seminiferous tubules. This article focuses on the roles of Sertoli cells in normal and abnormal spermatogenesis, outlines the association of spermatogenesis with the number and morphology of and protein expressions and secretions in Sertoli cells, and provides some reference for the studies of the gene therapy for male infertility and male contraception.
Keywords: Sertoli cell; sperm; spermatogenesis; testis.