Expression of telomerase gene mTERT in the testis of SD rats and its significance

Objective To study the expression of mTERT gene in the testis of SD rats and its significance.Methods Using in situ hybridization(ISH) techniques,the expression of telomerase gene mTERT mRNA in the testis of 55 SD rats (11 groups) was detected.Results Of 55 rats,54 (98%) were positive for the expression of mTERT.There was a positive correlation between the expression of mTERT and the location of germ cells (spermatogonia,spermatocyte,spermatid).Type A spermatogonia expressed the highest level of telomerase mTERT mRNA.In Setoli cells,leydig cells,spermatozoa,telomerase mTERT was not detected.Conclusion There was a positive correlation between the expression of mTERT gene and the telomerase activity of germ cells.Further studies should be done to find whether it could become a new pathway for the gene therapy of reproduction in males.