Which cells in the testes secrete testosterone?

Which cells in the testes secrete testosterone?

• A. Sertoli cells
• B. Germ cells
• C. Leydig (interstitial) cells
• D. Peritubular myoid cells

Answer: (C)

Testosterone is produced by Leydig cells located in the interstitial tissue between the seminiferous tubules. These steroid-producing cells respond to luteinizing hormone from the pituitary. The testosterone they secrete enters the bloodstream and also acts locally to support spermatogenesis by stimulating Sertoli cells and to drive androgenic functions elsewhere in the body. Sertoli cells, by contrast, reside inside the seminiferous tubules and provide support for developing germ cells, producing inhibin and androgen-binding protein, but not testosterone. Germ cells are the evolving sperm precursors within the tubules. Peritubular myoid cells form the outer layer around the tubules, contributing to structure and movement, not hormone production.

Testosterone is produced by Leydig cells located in the interstitial tissue between the seminiferous tubules. These steroid-producing cells respond to luteinizing hormone from the pituitary. The testosterone they secrete enters the bloodstream and also acts locally to support spermatogenesis by stimulating Sertoli cells and to drive androgenic functions elsewhere in the body. Sertoli cells, by contrast, reside inside the seminiferous tubules and provide support for developing germ cells, producing inhibin and androgen-binding protein, but not testosterone. Germ cells are the evolving sperm precursors within the tubules. Peritubular myoid cells form the outer layer around the tubules, contributing to structure and movement, not hormone production.