Review Question - QID 101929

Sertoli cells are responsible for producing anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) (also known as mullerian-inhibitory factor, or MIF) which prevents the formation of female internal reproductive structures.

Several substances are required for normal male embryo development. Sertoli cells of the testes produce anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) (aka. MIF), inhibiting the formation of the paramesonephric ducts. The mesonephric ducts remain and give rise to the male internal reproductive organs. Testosterone, produced by Leydig cells of the testes, promotes the further development of the male internal reproductive organs. Dihydrotesterosterone (DHT), produced from testosterone by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, promotes the further development of the male external reproductive organs.

Leung et al. report that transverse division of the embryologic genital ridge results in the various forms of polyorchidism. Recall that polyorchidism is the presence of more than two testes. The most common associated anomaly in the formation of male reproductive organs is the maldescent of the testis.

Sinisi et al. discuss the genetic basis for sexual differentiation in which male or female phenotype develops through determination to differentiation. The genetic sex (46, XY or 46, XX) of the embryo determines whether the gonad differentiates into a testis or an ovary, respectively. A Y-related gene, SRY, acts as the principal signal for testis formation.

Illustration A shows Sertoli cells within the tubules of the testis, and their characteristic dark nucleoli. This particular image shows an absence of spermatogenesis.

Incorrect answers:
Answer 1: Leydig cells, found in the testes, respond to luteinizing hormone (LH) and produce testosterone.
Answer 3: Theca cells are found in the ovaries and respond to the actions of luteinizing hormone (LH).
Answer 4: Granulosa cells are found in the ovaries and respond to the actions of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
Answer 5: Reticularis is not a cell type. The zona reticularis of the adrenal gland is the site of androgen production in that gland.