Molecular mechanisms of testosterone action in spermatogenesis

Testosterone is required for the maturation of male germ cells, the production of sperm and thus male fertility. However, the mechanisms by which testosterone regulates spermatogenic processes have not been well defined. In this review, classical and non-classical pathways of testosterone signaling in the Sertoli cells of the testis are discussed in relation to testosterone-regulated processes that are required for spermatogenesis. (C) 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.