Definition
noun, plural: convoluted seminiferous tubules
Any of the convoluted or curved canals of the seminiferous tubules in each lobule of the testis, and where spermatogenesis occurs
Supplement
The animal male gonad, called testicle or testis, is enclosed in a capsule referred to as tunica albuginea. Under the tunica albuginea, the testis contains threadlike coiled tubes referred to as the seminiferous tubules. These tubules have an epithelial lining that consists of the Sertoli cells and spermatogenic cells. The spermatogenic cells give rise to spermatozoa (the male gamete). The Sertoli cells are columnar cells in the epithelial lining that provide nourishment to the developing spermatozoa. The seminiferous tubules are comprised of two parts, the convoluted seminiferous tubules and the straight seminiferous tubules.
One of the differences between the convoluted and the straight seminiferous tubules is their appearance. The convoluted seminiferous tubules are twisted curved tubules whereas the straight seminiferous tubules (as the name implies) are the short straight passageways between the convoluted seminiferous tubules and rete testis. Another difference is their function. The convoluted seminiferous tubules are that part involved in the production of spermatozoa and therefore the site of spermatogenesis. Sperm cells are produced here. The spermatogenic cells undergo the process of meiosis. The straight seminiferous tubules, in contrast, do not produce spermatozoa. Rather, they serve as a passageway for the sperm cells produced in the convoluted seminiferous tubule into the rete testis.
Synonym(s):
- tubulus seminifer contortus
- tubulus contortus
Compare:
See also:
- seminiferous tubule
- semen
- sperm cell
- Sertoli cell
- epithelial cell
- spermatogenesis
