Dictionary > Seminiferous tubule

Seminiferous tubule

Definition
noun, plural: seminiferous tubules
Any of the tubules in the testes through which spermatozoa are produced and conveyed to the rete testis
Supplement
Seminiferous tubules are coiled (for the most part) tubules found within the testes. They are the site where spermatozoa (male gametes) are produced. The epithelial lining of the seminiferous tubule consists of Sertoli cells, which are sustentacular columnar cells, and spermatogenic cells that give rise to sperm cells. The Sertoli cells are essential for the nourishment and the development of the sperm cells. They secrete testis-determining factor that increases the concentration of testosterone in seminiferous tubules.
There are two types of seminiferous tubules: (1) the convoluted seminiferous tubules and (2) the straight seminiferous tubules. The convoluted seminiferous tubules are those twisted curved tubules in each lobule of the testis. They are where spermatogenesis occurs. The straight seminiferous tubules are the continuation of the tubulus seminifer contortus which becomes straight just before entering the mediastinum to form the rete testis.
See also:


You will also like...

Homo Species
The Homo Species

The evolution of the species of the genus "Homo" led to the emergence of modern humans. Find out more about human evolut..

Human Neurology
Human Neurology

Human Neurology deals essentially with the nervous system of humans. It also features the various theories put forward b..

Nephrolepis exaltata
Vascular Plants: Ferns and Relatives

Ferns and their relatives are vascular plants, meaning they have xylem and phloem tissues. Because of the presence of va..

Disturbance on a still water
Abiotic Factors – Water Conditions

A still body of water may be disturbed by a variety of factors. One of them is wind. In fact, it is considered as the pr..

Hormone Production
Hormone Production

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by specialized glands and they were produced by switching on the genes designe..

Biological Viruses
Biological Viruses

Viruses possess both living and non-living characteristics. This unique feature distinguishes them from other organisms...

Related Articles...

No related articles found

See all Related Topics