Transcriptome analysis of Sertoli cells

The dissociation of Sertoli and germ cells is a critical step in studying testicular development and disorders of sex differentiation (DSD). Sertoli cells play a fundamental role in supporting germ cell maturation, preserving the blood-testis barrier, and regulating the testicular microenvironment. However, their extensive junctional networks with germ cells pose a major challenge for single-cell transcriptomic studies. Efficient dissociation methods are essential to accurately analyze cellular heterogeneity, gene expression patterns, and developmental pathways. This project aims to refine tissue dissociation protocols, enabling high-quality single-cell and single-nuclei analyses to improve our understanding of gonadal development, expand diagnostic precision, and advance personalized medicine for individuals with DSD, infertility and tumor risk.