Interstitial cells (of Leydig) in testes secrete which of the following:March 2011

Ans. B: TestosteroneLeydig/Interstitial cells secrete androgenic hormone testosterone at the time of pubeyPrimary cell types of testes(A). Within the seminiferous tubules- Here, germ cells develop into spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids and spermatozoon through the process of spermatogenesis. The gametes contain DNA for feilization of an ovum- Seoli cells - the true epithelium of the seminiferous epithelium, critical for the suppo of germ cell development into spermatozoa. Seoli cells secrete inhibin.(B). Between tubules (interstitial cells)- Leydig cells - cells localized between seminiferous tubules that produce and secrete testosterone and other androgens impoant for sexual development and pubey, secondary sexual characteristics like facial hair, sexual behavior and libido, suppoing spermatogenesis and erectile function. Testosterone also controls testicular volume.