Stimulation by androgens of the production of androgen binding protein by cultured Sertoli cells.

The formation of androgen-binding protein (ABP) by cultured Sertoli cells, prepared from testes of immature rats, is increased when androgens or follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are present in the medium. Testosterone and 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone are equally effective in stimulating the synthesis and secretion of ABP, but non-androgenic steroids examined (progesterone, 17beta-estradiol and corticosterone) are without influence. Maximal increases are observed when androgens are added at the time of cell plating. Cells maintained in culture medium devoid of hormones become progressively less sensitive to subsequent addition of testosterone or FSH. Data are discussed in relation to the sites of androgen requirements for spermatogenesis.