Leydig cell
Leydig Cell
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 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 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 cell-stimulating hormone (ICSH): Another name for luteinizing hormone in males, it stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Leydig cell
- Wikipedia's article - Leydig cell
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