Leydig cells express the FABP9 in human testis.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that the FABP9/PERF15 gene is expressed in mice and in some other mammals in the testicles and in the spermatozoa, and its possible effect on the ability of the sperm to form and maintain the nucleus until fertilization. OBJECTIVE: Since the FABP9 homologue gene exists in humans, and so far no research has been done to indicate the exact location of this gene in the organism, it is necessary to find a better interpretation of its possible performance by its localization in the testis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Biopsied testicular tissue samples after sectioning and embedding on class slide were subjected to IHC with specific monoclonal antibody and underwent final staining with hematoxylin and eventually evaluated by light microscope. RESULTS: The antibody could successfully bind and detect its related protein, FABP9, in Leydig cells rather than spermatogenic cells. CONCLUSION: The expression of FABP9 in a different cell type rather than spermatogenic cells in other mammals, reports of a plausible different function for the gene product like its involvement in fertility potential in homo sapiens.