The testis, a vital male reproductive organ, has a simple structure with sperm-producing tubules and tissue between them.
1. Seminiferous Tubules: Key units for sperm production, supported by nourishing Sertoli cells.
2. Interstitial Tissue (Leydig Cells): Leydig cells, between tubules, produce testosterone for male reproductive functions.
3. Spermatogonia: Germ cells in tubules undergo mitosis to become sperm precursors.
4. Spermatogenesis: Tubule process where spermatogonia undergo meiosis to form mature sperm.
5. Sertoli Cells: Tubule cells that support and nourish developing sperm during spermatogenesis.
6. Leydig Cells: Interstitial cells producing testosterone in response to luteinizing hormone (LH).
7. Rete Testis: Tubular network collecting sperm before it moves to the epididymis.
8. Blood Vessels: Well-vascularized; blood vessels provide nutrients and oxygen for spermatogenesis.
9. Epididymis: Not part of the testis but closely associated, storing and transporting mature sperm.
10. Tunica Albuginea: Fibrous capsule offering structural support, dividing the testis into lobules with seminiferous tubules.