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The single-cell atlas of the epididymis in mice reveals the changes in epididymis function before and after sexual maturity.

Authors :
Zhang J
Xie Y
Wang X
Kang Y
Wang C
Xie Q
Dong X
Tian Y
Huang D
Source :
Frontiers in cell and developmental biology [Front Cell Dev Biol] 2024 Aug 05; Vol. 12, pp. 1440914. Date of Electronic Publication: 2024 Aug 05 (Print Publication: 2024).
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Introduction: The epididymis is important for sperm transport, maturation, and storage. Methods: The head and tail of the epididymis of 5-week-old and 10-week-old C57 BL/6J male mice were used for single-cell sequencing. Results: 10 cell types including main, basal, and narrow/clear cells are identified. Next, we performed cell subgroup analysis, functional enrichment analysis, and differentiation potential prediction on principal cells, clear cells, and basal cells. Our study indicates that the principal cells are significantly involved in sperm maturation, as well as in antiviral and anti-tumor immune responses. Clear cells are likely to play a crucial role in safeguarding sperm and maintaining epididymal pH levels. Basal cells are implicated in the regulation of inflammatory and stress responses. The composition and functions of the various cell types within the epididymis undergo significant changes before and after sexual maturity. Furthermore, pseudo-temporal analysis elucidates the protective and supportive roles of epididymal cells in sperm maturation during sexual maturation. Discussion: This study offers a theoretical framework and forecasts for the investigation of epididymal sperm maturation and epididymal immunity.<br />Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.<br /> (Copyright © 2024 Zhang, Xie, Wang, Kang, Wang, Xie, Dong, Tian and Huang.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
2296-634X
Volume :
12
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Frontiers in cell and developmental biology
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
39161591
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3389/fcell.2024.1440914