L8b - Male Gonads

Testicles

Male reproductive organs producing sperm and hormones.

Spermatogenesis

Process of sperm cell development in testes.

Leydig Cells

Cells producing testosterone in the testes.

Sertoli Cells

Support cells for spermatogenesis in seminiferous tubules.

Testicular Artery

Paired artery supplying blood to the testes.

Pampiniform Plexus

Vein network cooling blood to testes.

Tunica Vaginalis

Outer layer covering the testes.

Tunica Albuginea

Inner fibrous layer surrounding the testes.

Hormonal Control

Regulation of spermatogenesis by hormones.

Androgens

Steroid hormones promoting male characteristics and spermatogenesis.

Testosterone

Primary androgen produced by Leydig cells.

Dihydrotestosterone

Active form of testosterone influencing male traits.

Cryptorchidism

Condition of undescended testicles, often hereditary.

Leydig Cell Tumours

Common testicular tumors in dogs, often benign.

Sertoli Cell Tumours

Less common tumors linked to cryptorchidism.

Seminoma

Tumor of seminiferous tubules, linked to cryptorchidism.

LH (Luteinising Hormone)

Hormone stimulating testosterone production in Leydig cells.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone)

Hormone stimulating Sertoli cells for spermatogenesis.

Endocrine Regulation

Hormonal control of reproductive functions and processes.

Testicular Descent

Process of testicles moving into the scrotum.

Blood Supply to Testes

Testicular artery and veins draining into vena cava.

Functions of Testes

Spermatogenesis and hormone production.