Male reproduction

Question 1

What is the cell of origin for androgen binding protein? Its function?

Answer 1

1. Sertoli cell 2. Allows increased testosterone concentrations at areas of spermatogenesis

Question 2

What is the cell of origin for inhibin B? Its function?

Answer 2

1. Sertoli cells 2. Selectively inhibits FSH production by anterior pituitary

Question 3

What is the function of Sertoli cells? How are they regulated?

Answer 3

1. Provide stem cell environment in intratubular compartment, development of spermatogonia, produce and secrete ABP 2. Regulated by testosterone and ABP

Question 4

What is the function of Leydig cells? How are they regulated?

Answer 4

1. Synthesis of testosterone in peritubular compartment 2. Regulated by LH (cholesterol desmolase is rate limited enzyme)

Question 5

Definition: spermatogenesis

Answer 5

Development of spermatids from spermatogonia

Question 6

Definition: spermiogenesis

Answer 6

Development of spermatozoa from spermatids (controlled by FSH)

Question 7

Definition: spermiation

Answer 7

Release of mature sperm into lumen

Question 8

What is primary hypogonadism? Secondary?

Answer 8

1. Testicular dysfunction leads to decrease in testosterone production 2. Hypothalamus / pituitary dysfunction (decrease in circulating gonadotropins)