Summary. The biosynthesis of inositol from d-glucose was measured in testis slices from normal, cryptorchid and triethylenemelamine (TEM)-treated rats. A significant reduction of inositol synthetic activity accompanied the disappearance of spermatids and spermatozoa in both cryptorchid and TEM-treated animals. The onset of reduced inositol synthetic activity was extremely rapid in the cryptorchid testis, and preceded the appearance of grossly demonstrable histological alterations. These data suggest that de novo inositol synthesis might be required for maintenance of the cellular integrity of the germinal epithelium. This hypothesis is discussed in conjunction with recent theories concerning the rôle of inositol in the uptake of protein and nucleic acid precursors.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Morris et al. (1971) studied this question.