# CELL BIOLOGY OF THE TESTIS

> **NIH NIH P01** · GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY · 1994 · $928,123

## Abstract

The central theme of the Program Project is Cellular Interactions in the
Testis and the role that these interactions play in regulating germ cell
differentiation.  This research topic is multifaceted in that it
encompasses complex cellular communications among at least four different
testicular elements (Sertoli, germ, myoid, and Leydig cells).  Each project
director has a unique expertise and thus brings a multidisciplinary
approach to the research.  In project 1, Dr. Chan will extend his work on
the importance of a "pregnancy specific" glycoprotein (PSG) during testis
development.  This glycoprotein, possibly a growth factor, is found in very
high concentrations in the placenta and, more recently, Dr. Chan found that
it is also present in large amounts in the mammalian testis.  In project 2,
Dr. Djakiew will investigate a relatively novel area of research, ie, the
effect of germ cell proteins on Sertoli cell function.  His preliminary
results have shown that germ cell proteins regulate Sertoli cell function
by stimulating total protein synthesis and secretion, and by inducing the
synthesis and secretion of novel Sertoli cell peptides.  He has identified
a germ cell nerve growth factor-like protein which modulates a specific
Sertoli cell protein, and he will concentrate on this interaction.  In
project 3, Dr. Dym will continue to examine the role of the Sertoli cell in
the spermatogenic process.  A principal objective of his research project
is to use the bicameral (dual compartment) cell culture chamber to recreate
the cellular elements of the testis in vitro in a manner that is analogous
to their in vivo organization.  In project 4, Dr. Musto will examine the
mechanism by which extracellular androgen binding proteins interact with
androgen-responsive cells and the response of the target cells to this
interaction.  It appears that a receptor-mediated endocytosis of these
proteins is taking place.  In project 5, Dr. Papadopoulos will continue his
long-standing interest on paracrine interactions in the testis.  He will
investigate the mechanisms by which the Sertoli cells modulate Leydig cell
function with a particular emphasis on the purification, characterization,
and mechanism of action of the Sertoli cell protein(s) stimulating Leydig
cell steroid biosynthesis.  We are also requesting funds to establish four
cores, administrative, cell culture, chemistry, and morphology and show
that cost effectiveness and quality control will be enhanced.  A concerted
effort by several investigators with a single research theme should result
in greater overall productivity, more interdisciplinary type of research,
and more significant research than if each of the project directors
developed their grants as independent RO1s.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 2199254
- **Project number:** 5P01HD024633-03
- **Recipient organization:** GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
- **SAM.gov UEI:** TF2CMKY1HMX9
- **Principal Investigator:** MARTIN DYM
- **Activity code:** P01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 1994
- **Award amount:** $928,123
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 1992-03-01 → 1996-02-28

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/2199254

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 2199254, CELL BIOLOGY OF THE TESTIS (5P01HD024633-03). Retrieved via MORVS 2026-10-26 from https://api.morvs.ai/grant/nih/2199254. Licensed CC0.

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