Differentiate between the location and function of Sertoli cells and Leydig cells.

Hint: These cells are caring cells and help in the development of gametes and ruling of major and secondary sexual characters. Sertoli provides nutrition to the developing sperm and Leydig synthesizes and secretes testosterone and androstenedione..

Complete answer:
It is the fragment of a seminiferous tubule and it supports in the development of spermatogenesis i.e. the production of sperms. They are originating together to the seminiferous tubules in the testicle. Leydig cells are polyhedral in character; they have a large projecting core and an eosinophilic cytoplasm. They also have numerous lipid-filled vesicles.

Sertoli cells:
> Location: It is specifically located in the convoluted seminiferous tubules
> Functions:
• They provide nutrition to the developing sperms during spermatogenesis therefore, the Sertoli cells are also named as ‘mother or nurse cell’.
• Sertoli cells also act as phagocytes and consume the residual cytoplasm left during spermatogenesis.
• Sertoli cells secrete the hormone inhibin, ABP (Aromatase Binding Protein), and anti-mullerian hormone.
• They together form the ‘blood testis barrier’ that stops the flow of unwanted molecules and pathogens through it.

Leydig cells:
> Location: These cells are interstitial cells located adjacent to the seminiferous tubules in the testes.
> Functions:
• They secrete male hormone, testosterone, and regulates the maintenance of primary and secondary sexual characters in males.
• Androgens are steroidal hormones consisting of testosterone, androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
• The androstenedione and DHEA are actively converted into testosterone by the enzyme desmolase.
• Androgens play a very important role in development of secondary sexual characters during puberty such as facial hair growth, sexual behaviour, libido etc.

Note: Inhibin sends harmful response to the pituitary gland, reducing the discharge of FSH and controls the development of spermatogenesis. Aromatase Binding Protein is responsible for the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone.