Rat Sertoli Cells

Sertoli cells (SerC) are sustentacular cells that line the basal region of the seminiferous tubules. These epithelial supporting cells adopt a pyramid-shaped morphology. SerC directly interacts with the germ cells and provide morphological and nutritional support for spermatogenesis. During spermiogenesis, the final step in spermatogenesis, SerC play a pivotal role in the degradation of residual body that were removed from the mature spermatid. Embryologically, following the determination of the testes, SerC prevent the development of female sex organs through the secretion of Mullerian Inhibiting Factor. Tight junctions formed between adjacent SerC make up the blood-testis barrier (BTB) or SerC barrier that is unique to the testis. This physical barrier plays an immunoprotective role in the testis by sequestering the spermatocytes and spermatids. The BTB also serves as a crucial barrier to prevent the introduction of external factors into the seminiferous tubules. Understanding the physiology and functions of Rat Sertoli Cells (RSerC) can provide functional insights into the regulation of spermatogenesis and male fertility.  

RSerC from ScienCell Research Laboratories are isolated from CD® IGS rat testes. RSerC are cryopreserved at Passage 1 and delivered frozen. Each vial contains >5 x 10⁵ cells in 1 ml volume. RSerC are characterized by immunofluorescence with antibodies specific to GATA4 and SOX9. RSerC are negative for mycoplasma, bacteria, yeast, and fungi.  RSerC are guaranteed to further culture under the conditions provided by ScienCell Research Laboratories; however, RSErC are not recommended for long-term cultures due to limited expansion capacity and senescence after subculturing.

Recommended Medium

It is recommended to use Sertoli Cell Medium (SerCM, Cat. #4521) for culturing RSerC in vitro.