Testes and Hormones

What does two testes produce?

Spermatozoa

Where are sperm cells (spermatozoa) are produced in the testes?

Seminiferous tubules

What structure occupies most of the space inside each testes?

Seminiferous tubules

How is the seminiferous tubules supported in the testes?

By connective tissue extensions (septa or trabeculae) 

The testes are surrounded by?

Connective tissue capsule called tunica albuginea 

Important Cells

• What are the 2 important cells in testes

• What is the function of both cells

2 important cells in testes: Sertoli and Leydig cells

Function of sertoli cells: 

• Help developing spermatozoa

• Produce nutrition for survival of sperm

• FSH stimulate production of androgen-binding protein

Function of leydig cells: 

• Testosterone synthesis 

• Influence first degree characteristics

Hormones

• Production of testosterone is controlled by

• Function of testosterone

Production of testosterone is controlled by: LH

• Hypothalamus releases GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone)

• GnRH stimulates anterior pituitary to release LH

• LH binds to receptors on Leydig cells

• Leydig cells synthesize and secrete testosterone

Function of testosterone:

• For spermatogenesis in seminiferous tubule 

• Stimulation of somatic growth