Abstract: Sertoli cells, the only somatic cell in seminiferous tubule, play an important role in the process of spermatogenesis. The functions of Sertoli cells are regulated by several hormones. For example, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) can regulate the cell proliferation and facilitate the cellular communication, and contribute to form the blood-testis barrier (BTB) as well. Androgen can down-regulate the level of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) to promote the development of Sertoli cells and maintain the integrity of BTB. Estrogen can induce apoptosis and survival of Sertoli cells at different doses, and regulate the expression of aquaporin and further to affect the BTB construction. In this paper, we reviewed the influences of hormones and their receptors on the structure and function of Sertoli cells and the specific molecular mechanisms. We think that it is available for both understanding the normal processes of spermatogenesis and developing possible treatment of male infertility caused by spermatogenic disorders.

Key words: Hormones, Spermatogenesis, Reproduction, Sertoli cells