Histology of the Male Reproductive Tract Flashcards
(33 cards)
Label this diagram
- C - Capsule
- ST - Seminiferous tubule
- R - Rete testis
- DE - Efferent ducts
- H - Head of epididymis
- B - Body of epididymis
- T - Tail of epididymis
- V - Vas deferens
Label this histograph
- L - Leydig cells
- G - Cells of the germ cell lineage
- S - Sertoli cells
What does the seminiferous epithelium consist of?
Two cell types;
- Sertoli cells
- Cells of the germ cell lineage
What do the sertoli cells form?
The blood-testis environment
What is the importance of the blood-testis environment?
It provides a safe environment for spermatogenesis
Why is it important that there is a safe environment for spermatogenesis?
Ensures the integrity of the next generation
Where are cells of the germ cell lineage found in the seminiferous tubules?
Embedded in sertoli cells
Where are leydig cells found?
Interspersed in connective tissue islands, between (but seperated from) seminiferous tubules
What is the function of Leydig cells?
Secrete testosterone
Why are tumours of the testis very important?
Because they are a high proportion of tumours seen in early life
What % of testicular neoplasms are germ cell tumours?
90-95%
What do seminiferous tubules converge on?
Rete testis
How do seminiferous tubules converge onto rete testis?
Via tubuli recti
Describe the histological features of the rete testis?
Simple cuboidal epithelium
What is the function of the rete testis?
Provides exit to the duct system for male germ cells
What does the efferent duct connect?
The rete testis with the head of the epididymis
What are the histological features of the efferent duct?
Characteristic scalloped epithelium
Label this histogram of the efferent duct
- C - Cilia
- M - Myoid cells
What contributes to sperm transport in the rete testis?
Combined ciliary and myoid contraction
What control is myoid contraction in the efferent duct under?
Autonomic
Why is it important that the efferent duct has mechanisms to aid motility?
Transports sperm until they develop independent motility
What is the vas deferens?
A four layered tube that connects the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct
What are the layers of the vas deferens?
- Epithelium
- 3 layers of smooth muscle
What kind of epithelium does the vas deferens have?
Psuedostratified columnar
