This is a Minority Research Inititation (MRI) grant to examine the growth factors that control hormonal actions that produce testosterone. Some of these growth factors are synthesized and secreted by certain highly specialized cells. The study of the process is complicated in mammals because cells at all stages of development are present at any one siting. the investigator will test qualitative and quantitative effects of growth factors on sperm cell development. The planning period will allow the development of a process to isolate, prepare, and identify sample cell cultures in the laboratory. This grant will provide support for a well-trained Minority biologist to prepare a competitive proposal to submit to the MRI research initiation component.
