Damaged spermatogenic cells induce inflammatory gene expression in mouse Sertoli cells through the activation of Toll-like receptors 2 and 4

► We investigate a hypothesis that damaged germ cells induce inflammation in the testis. ► Damaged germ cell products induce inflammatory mediator up-regulation in Sertoli cells. ► TLR signaling pathways in the inflammatory mediator up-regulation were examined. ► Busulfan-induced germ cell damage induces an inflammatory milieu in the testis.