Optimal Temperature for Synthesis of DNA, RNA, and Protein by Human Testis in Vitro

Abstract

To determine the optimal temperature for DNA, RNA, and protein syntheses in the human testis, the levels of incorporation of ³H-thymidine, ^l4C-uridine, and ¹⁴C-leucine into testicular tissue were studied at 28 °C, 31 °C, 34°C, and 37 °C in vitro. The results suggest that the DNA synthesis is at a maximum at 31°C and shows delicate temperature sensitivity, whereas the RNA and protein syntheses are at a maximum at 34 °C or 37 °C and are temperature-dependent. It is concluded that the temperature sensitivity of DNA synthesis may be one of the primary causes of delicate thermal inhibition of human spermatogenesis.

Key Words:

• Testis
• Macromolecular synthesis
• Optimal temperature