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Abstract
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Spermatogenesis is a complex and elaborate differentiation process and is vital for male fertility.
Sertoli cells play a major role in fertility and induce spermatogenesis by protecting, nourishing,
and supporting germ cells. It has been speculated that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus
2 (SARS-CoV-2) could directly affect the male reproductive system, and therefore
heredity and fertility. The similarity of SARS-CoV-2 to SARS-CoV could confirm this hypothesis
because both viruses use angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) as the receptor to enter
human cells. ACE2 is expressed by Sertoli cells and other testicular cells, therefore COVID-19
has the potential to impair fertility by destroying Sertoli cells. This hypothesis should be
evaluated and confirmed by monitoring fertility in patients with COVID-19.
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