Published on June 8, 2021 – Updated on July 20, 2021

Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) is the most common cancer in young men. Its incidence has increased over the last decades. The identification of the actors involved is essential, as 10% of the patients die from their cancer. Our objective is to identify the signaling pathways involved in TGCT.

Objectives. Our goal is to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms that support the detrimental effects of bile acids and environmental molecules on testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT). Regarding bile acid signaling pathways, we analyze the involvement of known bile acid receptors such as FXRa, TGR5, PXR and CAR.

Models and approaches. We use a combination of high-throughput technologies (RNAseq, ChIP-seq, metabolomic) to study differential metabolic pathways and gene expression profiles from model cell lines, genetically modified animals (mouse, nematode) and human clinical samples. This should be facilitated by our access to the GReD platforms, which include animal facility and phenotyping (Anipath). Cell sorting (FACS), single cell analysis, cell culture and imaging technologies that will ensure the success of our project are also available at the GReD

Based on our recent achievements, we have defined clear objectives to study the roles of bile acid signaling pathways in the etiology of TGCT and the sensitivity to anticancer therapies.

Expected Results. This innovative project represents an area of research that has not been explored so far, allowing us to propose new perspectives on the roles of bile acids and environmental molecules on testicular cancer. The objective of the project is to gain knowledge in these research areas and to propose markers for the diagnosis or prognosis of testicular cancer. A final objective will be to inform health agencies and patients for prevention and diagnosis concerning the links between liver diseases, exposures to environmental molecules and reproductive disorders and/or transmission of diseases to offspring.