Leydig cells, also known as interstitial cells of Leydig, are found adjacent to the seminiferous tubules in the testes. Leydig cells can synthesize testosterone and are often closely related to nerves. Leydig cells have round vesicular nuclei and a granular eosinophilic cytoplasm.

Nomenclature

Leydig cells are named after Franz Leydig, who discovered them in 1850.

Functions

They release the a class of hormones called androgens (C19 steroids). They secrete testosterone, androstenedione and dihydropiandrosterone, when stimulated by Luteinizing Hormone (LH). LH increases cholesterol desmolase activivty, leading to testosterone secretion by Leydig cells.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) increases the response of Leydig cells to LH (Luteinizing Hormone) by up regulation. (FSH increases the number of receptors for LH)

Leydig cells form during the 16th and 20th week of gestation. They are quiescent until puberty.

External link

• Reproductive Physiology

Steroid hormone secreting cells | Reproductive system | Eponymous anatomical structures

Leydig-Zelle | Célula de Leydig | Cellule de Leydig | Célula de Leydig | Leydigova bunka