The male reproductive system provides a distinctive shield to the immune system, safeguarding germ cells (GCs) from autoimmune harm. The testis in mammals creates a unique immunological setting due to its exceptional immune privilege and potent local innate immunity. which can result from a number of different circumstances, including disorders of the pituitary gland, GC aplasia, and immunological elements. Apoptosis, or programmed cell death (PCD), is essential for mammalian spermatogenesis to maintain and ensure an appropriate number of GCs that correspond with the supporting capability of the Sertoli cells. Apoptosis is substantial in controlling the number of GCs in the testis throughout spermatogenesis, and any dysregulation of this process has been linked to male infertility. There is a number of evidence about the potential of PCD in designing novel therapeutic approaches in the treatment of infertility. A detailed understanding of PCD and the processes that underlie immunological infertility can contribute to the progress in designing strategies to prevent and treat male infertility. This review will provide a summary of the role of immune cell death in male reproduction and infertility and describe the therapeutic strategies and agents for treatment based on immune cell death.
Journal of reproductive immunology. 2024 Jun 28 [Epub ahead of print]
Chen Jiahong, Dong Junfeng, Liu Shuxian, Wang Tao, Wang Liyun, Wu Hongfu
Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China; Department of Venereal Diseases and Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine and Bone Paralysis, Longjiang Hospital of Shunde District, Foshan, China., Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China., Guangzhou Huadu District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital (Huzhong Hospital of Huadu District), Guangzhou, China., Department of Venereal Diseases and Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine and Bone Paralysis, Longjiang Hospital of Shunde District, Foshan, China. Electronic address: ., Guangzhou Huadu District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital (Huzhong Hospital of Huadu District), Guangzhou, China. Electronic address: ., Dongguan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China. Electronic address: .