Ready-to-use 3D Human Sertoli Cell Spheroids

The basolateral region of the seminiferous tubules is lined with large epithelial supporting cells known as Sertoli cells. This cell type plays a significant role in the process of spermatogenesis. Sertoli cells facilitate various aspects of germ cell progression into mature spermatozoa, including providing nutritional and energy support to the developing germ cells. Tight junctions formed between adjacent Sertoli cell make up the blood-testis barrier (BTB) or Sertoli cell 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. Validation of the capability for male contraceptives to reach its target germ cells, as well as potential interference with male fertility as a side-effect of certain drugs necessitates a model that delineates the blood-testis-barrier in vitro. To provide a more native in vitro blood-testis-barrier model, ScienCell offers ready-to-use human Sertoli cell spheroids (SP3D-HSerC), which expresses junction markers such as Claudin-5. These spheroids are ready for experiments at 24-48 hours post thawing, and are an excellent in vitro model for studying the male fertility and drug penetration.