Ultrastructural studies on the Leydig cell of Taphozous Kachhensis (Dobson)
Keywords:
Leydig cell, mitochondria, Lipid droplets, CholesterolAbstract
Leydig cells constitute 4-6% of testicular volume and secrete the primary male sex hormone, testosterone. It is required to stimulate the male sexual differentiation, promotes male secondary sex characteristics, and maintains spermatogenesis. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum of interstitial cells reaches an unusual degree of development during sexually active period of Taphozous kachhensis. Approximation of SER and mitochondria with lipid droplets in cytoplasm of Leydig cell of Taphozous kachhensis indicates their role in the process of steroidogenesis. It has also been suggested that the extensive membranes of the agranular reticulum, in addition to providing sites for enzymes, may also act as a reservoir for the storage of cholesterol, since cholesterol is an important component of biological membranes. Leydig cells in Taphozous kachhensis, demonstrates endocytic/lysosomal pathway of steroidogensis. It shows coated pits, the uptake mechanism of LDL is evident at cell surface and early endosome (EE) and late endosome (LE) are identified. Ultrastructure of Leydig cell demonstrates, ‘mylin figures’ in close apposition with mitochondria and lipid droplets. These mylin figures are layered profiles of electron dense membrane and are significant in storing cholesterol in their compacted membranes.
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