Sädesvägarna

Sädesvägarna, also known as the semeniferous tubules, are microscopic coiled tubes within the testes of male vertebrates. These are the primary sites of spermatogenesis, the process of sperm production. Each testis contains hundreds of these tightly coiled tubules, which if uncoiled, would measure several hundred meters in length. The walls of the sädesvägarna are lined with germinal epithelium, a specialized tissue containing developing sperm cells at various stages of maturation, known as spermatogonia. Interspersed within this epithelium are Sertoli cells, which provide structural support and nourishment to the developing sperm. Between the tubules are interstitial cells, or Leydig cells, which are responsible for producing and secreting testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. Sperm cells mature as they travel through the sädesvägarna, undergoing a process of differentiation and growth. Once mature, they are released into the lumen of the tubule and then travel to the epididymis for further maturation and storage. The sädesvägarna are crucial for male fertility, and their proper functioning is essential for reproduction.