Question

Draw a labelled diagrammatic sectional view of seminiferous tubules.

Hint:

Label spermatogonia to sperm (inside-out order), Sertoli cells, and Leydig cells in the interstitium.

Answer 1

Step 1: Describe the overall structure:
Each testis contains about 250 lobules, each with one to three highly coiled seminiferous tubules, which are the sites of sperm production (spermatogenesis).

Step 2: Describe the two main cell types lining the tubule:
The seminiferous tubule wall is lined by two types of cells: spermatogenic cells (which, moving from the periphery towards the lumen, differentiate in sequence through spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes, secondary spermatocytes, spermatids, and finally mature sperm) and Sertoli cells (tall cells that nourish and support the developing germ cells).

Step 3: Describe the surrounding region:
Outside the seminiferous tubules, the interstitial spaces contain small clusters of Leydig cells (interstitial cells), which synthesize and secrete testosterone (androgens).

Final Answer:
A correctly labelled cross-section would show, from the outer basement membrane inward: spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes, secondary spermatocytes, spermatids and sperm lining the lumen, interspersed with tall Sertoli cells, with Leydig cells labelled in the interstitial spaces outside the tubule.