Sertoli cells are specifically located in the convolutions of the seminiferous tubules, since this is the only place in the testes where spermatozoa are produced.

Recently, however, scientists have found a way to induce Sertoli cells to a juvenile proliferative phenotype outside of the body.

Sertoli cells control the entry and exit of nutrients, hormones, and other chemicals into the tubules of the testis as well as make the adluminal compartment an immune-privileged site.

[14] This repair likely employs the process of non-homologous end joining involving XRCC1 and PARP1 proteins that are expressed in Sertoli cells.

This may reflect the need for greater efficiency of DNA repair and mutation avoidance in the germ line than in somatic cells.

Sperm cells express neo-epitopes on their surface as they progress through different stages of maturation, which can trigger a strong immune response if placed in a different part of the body.

[20] Clusterin, a soluble molecule with functions similar to CD59, forms a complex with Granzyme B and inhibits activation of apoptosis by T-lymphocytes or NK cells.

[20] TGF-beta, a transforming growth factor beta (its direct production by SCs is controversial), contributes to the induction of regulatory T-cells on the periphery.

These tumors produce both Sertoli and Leydig cells and lead to an increased secretion of testosterone in ovaries and testicles.

[25] The once commonly accepted fact that Sertoli cells are unable to divide and proliferate in Amniota has recently been challenged.

In mice, rats, and humans, the presence of these cells restored glucose homeostasis as well as lowered requirements for external insulin.

This recent scientific work promises a future better treatment to patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus through the use of cell therapy.

Sertoli cells promote skin graft acceptance by the recipient organism[31] and their presence also helps to increase the numbers of motor neurons in the spinal cord of SOD1 mice (a mouse model used in the study of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).