Influence of Testosterone on Inflammatory Response in Testicular Cells and Expression of Transcription Factor Foxp3 in T Cells

PROBLEM: Previous studies demonstrated a strong association between low androgen levels and reduced capacity to mount an inflammatory response. However, the mechanisms underlying these observations are largely not understood.

METHODS OF STUDY: Generation of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in Leydig cell-conditioned media was determined by flow cytometry and ELISA. Influence of testosterone on cytokine response was measured in LPS-stimulated testicular macrophages, Sertoli and peritubular cells.

RESULTS: Leydig cell-conditioned media dose-dependently stimulated expression of transcription factor Foxp3 and secretion of IL-10 in splenic CD4+ T cells, an effect abolished by addition of the anti-androgen flutamide. In isolated Sertoli and peritubular cells, testosterone pre-treatment suppressed the LPS-induced inflammatory response on TNF-α mRNA expression, while no effect was evident in testicular macrophages (TM).

CONCLUSIONS: Androgens can influence the immune system under normal conditions by the generation and functional differentiation of regulatory T cells and in testicular inflammation by direct effect on Sertoli and peritubular cells.