The cells that produce testosterone in the testis are called
spermatocytes
sustentacular cells
spermatogonia
macula densa cells
interstitial endocrine cells
The Correct Answer is E
A. spermatocytes: These are intermediate cells in the process of spermatogenesis that undergo meiotic division to eventually become spermatids. They are located within the seminiferous tubules and are sequestered from the systemic circulation by the blood-testis barrier. Their primary function is genetic reduction rather than the biosynthesis of steroid hormones.
B. sustentacular cells: Also known as Sertoli cells, these provide structural and nutritional support to developing sperm within the seminiferous tubules. They produce androgen-binding protein and inhibin under the influence of follicle-stimulating hormone. While they facilitate the action of testosterone, they are not the primary site of its synthesis.
C. spermatogonia: These represent the stem cell population of the testes that undergo mitosis to maintain the germ cell line. They are diploid cells located on the basement membrane of the seminiferous tubules. They possess no endocrine capability and serve exclusively as the precursors for the male gametic lineage.
D. macula densa cells: These are specialized chemoreceptor cells located in the distal convoluted tubule of the kidney. They function within the juxtaglomerular apparatus to monitor sodium chloride concentration in the renal filtrate. They have no physiological presence or function within the male reproductive system or the testes.
E. interstitial endocrine cells: Also called Leydig cells, these are situated in the connective tissue spaces surrounding the seminiferous tubules. In response to luteinizing hormone from the anterior pituitary, they synthesize and secrete testosterone. This androgen is essential for both spermatogenesis and the maintenance of male secondary sexual characteristics.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. prostate gland: The prostate secretes a slightly acidic fluid that contains enzymes and helps activate sperm. While it contributes to the semen, its primary role is not the initial neutralization of the urethra before ejaculation. Its secretions are mixed with sperm during the emission phase of the male sexual act.
B. bulbourethral gland: These glands, also known as Cowper's glands, secrete a clear, alkaline mucus into the spongy urethra during sexual arousal. This fluid neutralizes traces of acidic urine that could be harmful to sperm and provides lubrication for the glans. This occurs prior to the actual ejaculation of semen.
C. epididymis: The epididymis is the site for sperm storage and maturation rather than an accessory secretory gland for urethral neutralization. It adds a small amount of fluid to the sperm bolus, but this fluid does not enter the urethra until the moment of ejaculation. It lacks the volume and pH to neutralize the entire urethral pathway.
D. seminal glands: These glands produce a yellowish, alkaline fluid rich in fructose that makes up about 70 percent of semen. While the fluid is alkaline, it is released during ejaculation to neutralize the acidic environment of the vagina. It does not serve as the primary pre-ejaculatory urethral neutralizer.
Correct Answer is E
Explanation
A. urethra: This terminal duct of the male reproductive system serves a dual purpose by transporting both urine and semen. It is divided into prostatic, membranous, and spongy segments. As the final conduit for ejaculation, it is an essential component of the male reproductive ductal network.
B. ductus deferens: Also known as the vas deferens, this muscular tube propels sperm from the epididymis toward the ejaculatory duct during sexual arousal. It travels within the spermatic cord and enters the pelvic cavity via the inguinal canal. It represents a major segment of the internal duct system.
C. seminiferous tubules: These tightly coiled structures within the testicular lobules are the site of spermatogenesis. While they are the initial location where sperm are formed, they function as the beginning of the ductal pathway. They lead directly into the tubuli recti and the rete testis.
D. epididymis: This comma-shaped organ stores immature sperm and provides the environment for them to acquire motility and fertility. It consists of a highly coiled duct that connects the efferent ductules to the ductus deferens. It is a vital intermediary in the male reproductive tract.
E. corpus spongiosum: This is a column of erectile tissue that surrounds the spongy urethra within the penis. Its primary function is to prevent the compression of the urethra during an erection, ensuring a patent pathway for ejaculation. It is an anatomical erectile body rather than a duct.
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