Annotate a light micrograph of testis tissue to show the location and function of interstitial cells (Leydig cells), germinal

epithelium cells, developing spermatozoa and Sertoli cells. Outline the processes involved in spermatogenesis within the testis, including mitosis, cell growth and the two divisions of meiosis and cell differentiation.

Leydig cells? Found outside the seminiferous tubules in the testes, they produce testosterone. Leydig cells are stimulated by luteinizing hormone (LH) and are also called interstitial cells. The testosterone then stimulates meiotic divisions of spermatogenesis. Sertoli cells? Cells found within the seminiferous tubules in the testes that support developing spermatozoa. When sperm cells are differentiating (at the spermatid stage), they are physically attached to Sertoli cells before being released into the lumen. FSH and testosterone both act on Sertoli cells to have their effects. Germinal epithelial cells? Diploid cells within the seminiferous tubules that undergo mitosis and meiosis to become spermatids/spermatozoa.