Leydig cells
Leydig Cells
Leydig cells (pronounced: LAY-dig cells), also known as interstitial cells of Leydig, are found adjacent to the seminiferous tubules in the testicle. They produce testosterone in the presence of luteinizing hormone (LH). Leydig cells are named after the German anatomist Franz von Leydig, who first described these cells in 1850.
Etymology
The term "Leydig cell" is derived from the name of the German anatomist Franz von Leydig, who first identified these cells during his research on the microscopic anatomy of the testicles in the mid-19th century.
Function
Leydig cells are responsible for the production of testosterone, a crucial hormone for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics and the maintenance of male fertility. The production of testosterone by Leydig cells is stimulated by the luteinizing hormone (LH), which is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland.
Related Terms
- Testosterone: A steroid hormone that stimulates the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, produced mainly in the testes, but also in the ovaries and adrenal cortex.
- Luteinizing hormone (LH): A hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates ovulation in females and the synthesis of androgen in males.
- Seminiferous tubules: A network of tiny tubules in the testes where sperm are produced.
- Interstitial tissue of the testes: The tissue in the testes that contains the Leydig cells, which produce testosterone.
- Franz von Leydig: A German anatomist who first described the Leydig cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Leydig cells
- Wikipedia's article - Leydig cells
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