What is the function of Leydig cells?

Leydig cells are interstitial cells located adjacent to the seminiferous tubules in the testes. The best-established function of Leydig cells is to produce the androgen, testosterone, under the pulsatile control of pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) (9).

What are Leydig cells?

Leydig 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).

What is the function of Sertoli cells and Leydig cells?

The Sertoli cells express functional receptors for FSH, whereas the Leydig cells express LH receptors. Thus, these two receptors are mutually exclusive. The LH-stimulated Leydig cell androgen production is essential for the development and maintenance of the male reproductive tract and spermatogenesis [1].

What is the role of Leydig cells in reproduction?

Leydig cells are present in the interstitial spaces in the testicular lobules. They secrete androgens, primarily testosterone. Androgens stimulate the process of spermatogenesis, i.e. the formation of sperms, which is one of the main steps in reproduction.

What does function do Leydig cells serve?

Leydig cells (LC) are present in the testicular interstitial tissue, and their main function is to produce testosterone (T) for the maintenance of spermatogenesis and extratesticular androgenic and anabolic functions.

What are Leydig cells and what do they secrete?

Leydig cells release a class of hormones called androgens (19-carbon steroids). They secrete testosterone, androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) , when stimulated by the pituitary hormone luteinizing hormone (LH).

How do Leydig and Sertoli cells differ?

The Leydig cells are round in shape and present as small groups within a shorter distance to each other in contrast, Sertoli cells are tall and elongated and present as single cells which are tightly packed. This is the key difference between Leydig cells and Sertoli cells.

What does Leydig’s cell secrete?

It is characterized by underdevelopment (hypoplasia) of Leydig cells in the testes. Leydig cells secrete male sex hormones (androgens) that are important for normal male sexual development before birth and during puberty.