Testis Anatomy and Spermatogenesis

A collection of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to testis anatomy and the process of spermatogenesis.

Sertoli Cells

Somatic cells inside seminiferous tubules that support and nourish developing germ cells.

Blood-Testis Barrier (BTB)

A barrier formed by tight junctions between Sertoli cells that prevents immune reactions from destroying germ cells.

Spermatogenesis

The process of sperm production, involving mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis.

Spermatocytogenesis

The initial phase of spermatogenesis involving mitotic divisions of spermatogonia to form primary spermatocytes.

Meiosis

A two-part cell division process that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing haploid cells.

Spermiogenesis

The final stage of spermatogenesis where spermatids undergo differentiation to become mature sperm.

Intercellular Bridge

Cytoplasmic connections that allow communication and synchronization among developing germ cells.

Leydig Cells

Cells located in the interstitial compartment that produce testosterone.

Tight Junctions

Connections between Sertoli cells that form a barrier and compartmentalize the seminiferous tubules.

Mitosis

A cell division process resulting in two identical daughter cells, used for the proliferation of spermatogonia.

Differentiation

The process in which cells change from one type to a more specialized type; in spermatogenesis, this refers to spermatids maturing into sperm.

Spermatids

Haploid cells resulting from meiosis, which will differentiate into mature sperm.

Acrosome

A cap-like structure that develops over the head of sperm, containing enzymes essential for penetrating the oocyte.

Cohort

A synchronized group of developing germ cells, connected by cytoplasmic bridges.

Residual Body

The cytoplasmic remnant that is phagocytosed by Sertoli cells after spermiation.

Spermiation

The process by which mature sperm are released from the Sertoli cells into the lumen of the seminiferous tubules.

Testis Anatomy

The structural organization of the testis, including compartments containing different cell types involved in spermatogenesis.

Lumen

The interior space of the seminiferous tubules where mature sperm are released.

Primary Spermatocyte

Diploid cells that undergo meiosis to become secondary spermatocytes.

Secondary Spermatocyte

Cells that result from the first meiotic division of primary spermatocytes and are short-lived.

Sertoli Cell Function

Functions include nurturing developing germ cells, hormonal communication, and forming the blood-testis barrier.

Stages of Germ Cell Development

Sequential maturation phases that germ cells undergo during spermatogenesis.

Sperm Morphology

The structure and shape of sperm, including variations among different species.