The role of the Leydig cell in spermatogenic function

Abstract

Testosterone is the most well known of the products synthesized and secreted by Leydig cells and that have a defined involvement in the regulation of spermatogenesis. However, the Leydig cell is the main source of testicular estrogen and estrogen action has both positive and negative effects on spermatogenesis that can no longer be ignored. In addition, two protein (Figure presented) products of the Leydig cell - INSL3 and oxytocin - influence spermatogenic function by stimulating, respectively, testis descent and movement of mature sperm to the excurrent ducts (Fig. 3). © 2008 Landes Bioscience and Springer Science+Business Media.