Sertolisoluilla

Sertolisoluilla, known in English as Sertoli cells, are specialized somatic cells within the seminiferous tubules of the testes. They create a nurturing and regulatory environment for germ cell development and help organize the process of spermatogenesis.

Structurally, Sertolisoluilla are tall columnar cells that extend from the basement membrane to the lumen of the tubule. Tight junctions between adjacent cells form the blood-testis barrier, dividing the tubule into basal and adluminal compartments. These features help create a controlled microenvironment for germ cell maturation and protect developing sperm from immune attack.

Their functions include nourishing and supporting germ cells through direct contact and secreted factors, phagocytosing residual cytoplasm during spermiogenesis, and secreting testicular fluid to facilitate sperm transport. They produce androgen-binding protein to maintain high intratubular testosterone levels and secrete inhibin B to regulate FSH release. They also contribute to endocrine signaling by responding to follicle-stimulating hormone and by producing anti-Müllerian hormone during fetal development to influence reproductive tract formation.

Origin and development: Sertolisoluilla arise from the gonadal ridge mesenchyme. Their differentiation is initiated by the SRY gene and downstream factors such as SOX9, and they play a key role in early testicular development by secreting AMH to promote Müllerian duct regression in males.

Clinical relevance: impairment of Sertolisoluilla function can disrupt spermatogenesis and fertility. Conditions such as Sertoli cell-only syndrome feature seminiferous tubules lined predominantly by Sertoli cells. Dysfunction of these cells is also considered in the context of testicular tumors and broader endocrine regulation.

The cells are named after the Italian histologist Enrico Sertoli, who described their role in the 19th century. See also testis, spermatogenesis, and blood-testis barrier.