Method of producing in vitro testicular constructs and uses thereof
AssigneeWake Forest University Health Sciences
InventorsSamuel Pendergraft, Hooman Sadri-Ardekani, Anthony Atala, Colin Bishop
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Abstract
A cell composition composed of spermatogonial stem cells, Sertoli cells, Leydig cells and optionally peritubular cells, is provided, as is a culture composition, artificial testicular construct, hydrogel composition, and device containing the same. A method for using the device as a physiologically relevant in vitro model of human testicular function to screen compounds for pharmacological or toxicological activity is also provided.
Claims23
A cell composition in the form of a three-dimensional artificial testicular construct, the composition comprising, in combination:
- (a) spermatogonial stem cells, wherein said spermatogonial stem cells are not immortalized,
- (b) immortalized Sertoli cells, and
- (c) immortalized Leydig cells,
- wherein said three-dimensional construct is in the form of an organoid and has a diameter of 100 to 300 microns, and
- wherein said spermatogonial stem cells, immortalized Sertoli cells and immortalized Leydig cells are human cells.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.