Seminiferous Tubules: Anatomy and Function

Seminiferous Tubules

Overview

Seminiferous tubules are integral components of the male reproductive system. Located within the testicles, these structures play a crucial role in producing sperm through the process of spermatogenesis.

Formation and Development

Seminiferous tubules develop in the fetal testes during the seventh and eighth gestational weeks, following conception. During the eighth week, they begin to produce sperm through the process of meiosis, resulting in the formation of spermatozoa.

Anatomy

Each testicle contains approximately 800 seminiferous tubules, which are arranged tightly and looped throughout the testes. These tubules are long, stretching possibly as much as a mile between the two testes. The tubules are lined with Sertoli cells, specific cells responsible for supporting sperm production. The Sertoli cells secrete proteins that increase the concentration of testosterone within the tubules, facilitating the growth and maturation of sperm.

Types of Tubules

There are two main types of seminiferous tubules: those containing immature spermatogonia and those containing mature sperm.

Maturation Process

Although sperm are partially developed within the seminiferous tubules, they undergo further maturation in the epididymis. Here, sperm develop their tails, which contribute to their motility.