Collective cell dynamics and luminal fluid flow in the epididymis: A mechanobiological perspective

Background The mammalian epididymis is a specialized duct system that serves a critical role in sperm maturation and storage. Its distinctive, highly coiled tissue morphology provides a unique opportunity to investigate the link between form and function in reproductive biology. Although recent gene...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Andrology (Oxford) 2024-07, Vol.12 (5), p.939-948
Main Authors: Lee, Veronica, Hinton, Barry T., Hirashima, Tsuyoshi
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
collective cell dynamics
epididymis
luminal fluid flow
mechanobiology
Morphology
Physiology
Sperm
Wolffian duct
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Summary:Background The mammalian epididymis is a specialized duct system that serves a critical role in sperm maturation and storage. Its distinctive, highly coiled tissue morphology provides a unique opportunity to investigate the link between form and function in reproductive biology. Although recent genetic studies have identified key genes and signaling pathways involved in the development and physiological functions of the epididymis, there has been limited discussion about the underlying dynamic and mechanical processes that govern these phenomena. Aims In this review, we aim to address this gap by examining two key aspects of the epididymis across its developmental and physiological phases. Results and Discussion First, we discuss how the complex morphology of the Wolffian/epididymal duct emerges through collective cell dynamics, including duct elongation, cell proliferation, and arrangement during embryonic development. Second, we highlight dynamic aspects of luminal fluid flow in the epididymis, essential for regulating the microenvironment for sperm maturation and motility, and discuss how this phenomenon emerges and interplays with epididymal epithelial cells. Conclusion This review not only aims to summarize current knowledge but also to provide a starting point for further exploration of mechanobiological aspects related to the cellular and extracellular fluid dynamics in the epididymis.
ISSN:2047-2919
2047-2927
2047-2927
DOI:10.1111/andr.13490