Answers

#56 Testis and Epididymis, Human, Adult, H&E

Why are the Leydig cells eosinophilic?
They contain numerous mitochondria.

Questions

1. What is the difference between spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis? Spermatogenesis is the entire process of formation of sperm from stem cell to spermatozoan. Spermiogenesis is the maturation process from spermatid to spermatozoan.
2. What is the effect of castration on the accessory sex glands (prostate and seminal vesicles)? Atrophy.
3. Where is the primary source of testosterone? The Leydig cells.
4. Where is the principal site of storage and mobility acquisition of spermatozoa in the male reproductive system? Epididymis.
5. Follow the passage of spermatozoa from the seminiferous tubules of the testis up to ejaculation. Seminiferous tubules, tubuli recti, rete testis, ductuli efferentes, epididymis, ductus deferens, urethra.
6. Which organs are the major sources of seminal fluid? Seminal vesicle, prostate gland, bulbo-urethral.
7. What are the components of the blood-testis barrier and what is its significance? Tight junctions between Sertoli cells isolate developing sperm from the vasculature (prevent their immunological rejection).