Chapter 27, Problem 1RFT

Match each numbered item with the most closely related lettered item.

interstitial endocrine cells........

Summary Introduction

To review:

Match the term interstitial endocrine cells with the most closely related descriptions given below:

Link from scrotal chamber to peritoneal cavity

Stem cells that produce sperm

Compartment of the scrotum containing a testis

Site of lactation

Flagellum

Inner layer of the uterine wall

Enlarged portion of the uterine tube

Important estrogen hormone

Responsible for the production of androgens

Layer of smooth muscle deep to the dermis of the scrotum

Introduction:

Interstitial cells are also known as Leydig cells. These cells are found in the testicles in males lying close to the seminiferous tubules. These cells are polyhedral in shape with a large nucleus. The nucleus in these cells have three prominent nucleoli along with darkly stained peripheral heterochromatin. These cells have numerous lipid filled vesicles in it.

Explanation of Solution

These cells produce androgens in males, which is responsible for developing primary as well as the secondary male characteristics during puberty. Testosterone is the male hormone (androgen), which is produced in the males.

Androgens are often associated with male hormones, but they are also found in small quantities in the females. Androgens are responsible for the production of estrogens in females as well as in the males. The interstitial cells produce the testosterone only in the presence of luteinizing hormone (LH) in males.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that the interstitial endocrine cells can be correctly matched with option (i) responsible for the production of androgens.