Visualization of the cytoskeleton in Leydig cells in vitro

Summary Effect of LH, vinblastine and cytochalasin B on the cytoskeleton of cultured Leydig cells was investigated using monoclonal antibodies and fluorescence microscopy. After LH addition and treatment with cytoskeletal disrupting drugs, three main effects were observed: 1) increase of androgen level secreted by cultured mouse Leydig cells, 2) changes of cell-shape towards regular and rounded, 3) increase of ⁵,3-HSD activity. The results are discussed in respect to possible involvement of cytoskeleton in the regulation of steroidogenesis.