Gland
Leydig (interstitial) cells
Interstitial steroidogenic cells of the testis
High-yield
LH primarily stimulates Leydig steroid production; FSH acts chiefly on Sertoli cells. High local testosterone supports sperm development through neighboring somatic cells.
Overview
Leydig cells occupy the tissue between seminiferous tubules and release testosterone into local and systemic circulation. They synthesize steroids from cholesterol in response to gonadotropin signaling. Their position outside the Sertoli-cell barrier allows close contact with interstitial blood vessels.
Reference facts
- Location
- In testicular interstitium between tubules, outside the adluminal blood-testis-barrier compartment.
- Hormones
- Mainly testosterone and other steroid products; fetal Leydig testosterone supports Wolffian duct differentiation, while local conversion to DHT contributes to external genital development.
- Blood supply
- Interstitial capillaries receive testicular arterial blood and return it through testicular venous channels toward the pampiniform plexus.
- Innervation
- Testicular autonomic pathways reach the organ, but LH is the principal pituitary stimulus for adult Leydig steroidogenesis.
- Function
- Maintains local androgen support for spermatogenesis and systemic androgen-dependent tissues and functions.
Clinical correlation
Exogenous androgens can suppress gonadotropins and reduce intratesticular testosterone, impairing sperm production despite high blood androgen exposure. Leydig-cell tumors may produce androgenic or estrogenic effects, although not all are hormonally symptomatic.
Frequently asked questions
Where are the leydig (interstitial) cells located?
In testicular interstitium between tubules, outside the adluminal blood-testis-barrier compartment.
What do the leydig (interstitial) cells secrete?
Mainly testosterone and other steroid products; fetal Leydig testosterone supports Wolffian duct differentiation, while local conversion to DHT contributes to external genital development.
What do the leydig (interstitial) cells do?
Maintains local androgen support for spermatogenesis and systemic androgen-dependent tissues and functions.
What is the blood supply of the leydig (interstitial) cells?
Interstitial capillaries receive testicular arterial blood and return it through testicular venous channels toward the pampiniform plexus.