[Cytokines and Sertoli cell and germ cell interactions].

The seminiferous epithelium is a source for several cytokines. Interleukins (IL-1 and IL-6) have been identified in Sertoli cells and more recently in germ cells. Their expression is modulated during the seminiferous epithelium cycle, via phagocytosis of residual bodies. Both IL-1 and IL-6 play a role in the replication of meïotic DNA and therefore intervene in the spermatogenetic process. The identification of other cytokines and the elucidation of their interaction with the cells of the seminiferous epithelium, should improve our knowledge of the male reproductive function and of the origin of some sterilities.