Question

What type of cell is found in the Seminiferous tubules?

Answer 1

Hint: Sertoli cells are the cells that are found in the seminiferous tubules. They are emerged from epithelial sex cords of the developing gonads. The Sertoli cells are tall columnar cells that span from the basement membrane to the lumen. The tubules contain epithelium which envelop and support the germ cells and differentiate into spermatozoa.

Complete answer-
Sertoli cells are commonly called “nurse cells” for the testicles which are part of a seminiferous tubule and help in the process of spermatogenesis, production of sperm. It is activated by follicle stimulating hormone and has tubular membranes and FSH receptor.
It is specifically located in testes and the development of such cells is directed by testis-determining factor protein. On slides, while observation- during standard staining the cells of Sertoli can be confused with germinal epithelium.
The proliferation and differentiation of Sertoli cells can be mainly activated by FGF. When the FGFfactor is absent it causes the female to develop. The Sertoli cells are differentiated terminally. As the name suggests, nurse cells, apart from nurturing the sperms, also behave as phagocytes.
Phagocytes behavior results in engulfing residual cytoplasm during spermatogenesis.

Note:
The cells as we discussed are the chief cells being produced from seminiferous tubules. The cells of Sertoli also secrete substances- like AMH (Anti-Mullerian hormone) which is produced during fetal life. Inhibin and activins are produced to regulate FSH secretion. Also, androgen binding protein called globulin increases testosterone concentration.