Fig. 8: SOX17 acts as a positive regulator of the formation of the SV. | Nature Communications

Fig. 8: SOX17 acts as a positive regulator of the formation of the SV.

From: SOX17-positive rete testis epithelium is required for Sertoli valve formation and normal spermiogenesis in the male mouse

Fig. 8

Schematic diagram summarizing the findings of this study. Sox17 expression in the RT modulates the formation of the SV, which regulates the unidirectional outflow of the luminal fluid from the ST into the RT. Ablation of Sox17 in the RT results in deformation of the SV and backflow of the luminal fluid from the RT to the ST. This causes aberrant spermiogenesis in the STs. Relocation of Sertoli cells of Sox17-cKO mice into Sertoli cell-ablated AMH-Treck mouse testis results in the reconstitution of the SV, while restoring spermatogenesis in the ST. Red arrows indicate putative paracrine factors downstream of Sox17 action that promote SV formation. RT rete testis, ST convoluted seminiferous tubule, SV Sertoli valve.

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