Sertoli Cells And Leydig Cells In Man

The testis is composed of seminiferous tubules and interstitial tissue. The most important component of the interstitial tissue are the testosterone-producing Leydig cells. The seminiferous tubules contain the successive generations of germ cells, which can only exist in the presence of Sertoli cells. Sertoli cells mediate the effect of testosterone, which is indispensable for the maintenance of spermatogenesis. Consequently, the function of the Sertoli cells depends large lyon the function of the Leydig cells, and a local control mechanism between the two cell systems has been assumed. Sertoli cells are supposed to interfere with the regulation of Leydig cell hormone production (Aoki and Fawcett 1978; Sharpe et al. 1981). Few cell types of the testis have received as much attention in recent years as have the Sertoli cells. While comprehensive data had accumulated concerning the differentiation of germ cells, there was formerly little information available on the influence of Sertoli cells on this process. Only through recently developed methods and experimental approaches could their central role in spermatogene sis be verified. Sertoli cells are the only somatic cells in the seminiferous tubules. Their origin is still disputed (for references see Ritzen et al. 1981). They supposedly stem either from the coelomic epithelium or from mesenchymal cells of the genital ridges. According to Wartenberg (1978) they are derived from a gonadal blas tema containing cells from both the coelomic epithelium and the mesonephros.

The testis is composed of seminiferous tubules and interstitial tissue. The most important component of the interstitial tissue are the testosterone-producing Leydig cells. The seminiferous tubules contain the successive generations of germ cells, which can only exist in the presence of Sertoli cells. Sertoli cells mediate the effect of testosterone, which is indispensable for the maintenance of spermatogenesis. Consequently, the function of the Sertoli cells depends large lyon the function of the Leydig cells, and a local control mechanism between the two cell systems has been assumed. Sertoli cells are supposed to interfere with the regulation of Leydig cell hormone production (Aoki and Fawcett 1978; Sharpe et al. 1981). Few cell types of the testis have received as much attention in recent years as have the Sertoli cells. While comprehensive data had accumulated concerning the differentiation of germ cells, there was formerly little information available on the influence of Sertoli cells on this process. Only through recently developed methods and experimental approaches could their central role in spermatogene sis be verified. Sertoli cells are the only somatic cells in the seminiferous tubules. Their origin is still disputed (for references see Ritzen et al. 1981). They supposedly stem either from the coelomic epithelium or from mesenchymal cells of the genital ridges. According to Wartenberg (1978) they are derived from a gonadal blas tema containing cells from both the coelomic epithelium and the mesonephros.

Sertoli Cell Biology, Second Edition summarizes the progress since the last edition and emphasizes the new information available on Sertoli/germ cell interactions. This information is especially timely since the progress in the past few years has been exceptional and it relates to control of sperm production in vivo and in vitro. Fully revised Written by experts in the field Summarizes 10 years of research Contains clear explanations and summaries Provides a summary of references over the last 10 years

The new edition of this canonical text on male reproductive medicine will cement the book's market-leading position. Practitioners across many specialties - including urologists, gynecologists, reproductive endocrinologists, medical endocrinologists and many in internal medicine and family practice – will see men with suboptimal fertility and reproductive problems. The book provides an excellent source of timely, well-considered information for those training in this young and rapidly evolving field. While several recent books provide targeted 'cookbooks' for those in a male reproductive laboratory, or quick reference for practising generalists, the modern, comprehensive reference providing both a background for male reproductive medicine as well as clinical practice information based on that foundation has been lacking until now. The book has been extensively revised with a particular focus on modern molecular medicine. Appropriate therapeutic interventions are highlighted throughout.

This book provides a comprehensive study of the Leydig cell, a fascinating and important cell type. It presents all of the developments in our understanding of Leydig cell biology and explores a wide variety of current and potential clinical applications. All aspects of Leydig cell biology, development, regulation, and physiology are explored in thirty-one expertly written chapters. This in-depth volume is an invaluable resource.

This book is focused on Sertoli cell physiology and its role in the spermatogenic event. These cells, known as “nurse cells”, are essential for the normal development of germ cells by offering not only physical support and creating an immune-privileged environment, but also for providing nutritional support. The presence of Sertoli cells promotes the establishment of the appropriate microenvironment so that spermatogenesis may occur. Spermatogenesis maintenance in vivo is highly dependent on the metabolic cooperation established between Sertoli cells and developing germ cells. For many years this metabolic cooperation between testicular cells has been disregarded, but recent advances have highlighted the relevance of these processes for male fertility. Thus, the understanding of the functioning and regulation of these metabolic processes is a crucial step to identify key mechanisms associated with Sertoli cell (dys)function and to enlighten their influence on male fertility.