Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
2
Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Cairo, Badr City 11829, Egypt.
3
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt. Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Cairo, Badr City 11829, Egypt.
4
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Cairo, Badr City 11829, Egypt
5
Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
Abstract
Spermatogenesis in rats is a well-coordinated and complex process that occurs within the seminiferous tubules of the testicular tissue. One complete seminiferous epithelium cycle would last 13 days; the whole process of spermatogenesis is last 56 days in rats and consists of a series of stages, each corresponding to a distinct phase in germ cell development. This process includes the proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. Spermatogenesis is regulated by a sophisticated interplay of hormones, primarily controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Luteinizing hormone stimulates Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone, a hormone essential for the maturation of spermatocytes and spermatids within the seminiferous tubules. Follicle-stimulating hormone targets Sertoli cells, which help maintain the structure of the seminiferous epithelium and facilitate the progression of spermatogenesis by supplying nourishment and secreting of inhibin, activin, follistatin, androgen-binding protein, and other regulatory factors that participate in the feedback mechanisms that control gonadotropin secretion. Disruptions in the hormonal balance can lead to impaired spermatogenesis and male infertility. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the 14-stage spermatogenic cycle and its hormonal regulation is crucial for elucidating the mechanisms underlying male fertility. Such knowledge provides valuable insights into male reproductive physiology and can guide the development of therapeutic interventions for fertility disorders.
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