CRYPTORCHID TESTES AND TESTICULAR HORMONE PRODUCTION

Abstract

Cryptorchid testes of man, dog, pig and sheep were studied. Cells in the seminiferous tubules of cryptorchid testes are active and produce other cells. These are illustrated. Cylindrical cells closely resembling primitive spermatogonia were found along the basement membrane in seminiferous tubules. These cells produce spermatogonia. They are designated as indifferent cells to distinguish them from Sertoli cells of mature, normal testes. Evidence is offered to show that cryptorchid testes, though lacking in spermatozoa, have germinal epithelium which is not only potentially active but undergoes division. It may take part in hormone production.