INTERSTITIAL CELLS Meaning and
Definition
-
Interstitial cells, also known as Leydig cells, are specialized cells found in the connective tissue of various organs and glands, primarily in the testes, adrenal glands, and ovaries. These cells are responsible for the production and secretion of sex hormones, particularly testosterone in males and small amounts in females.
Within the testes, interstitial cells are located in the spaces between the seminiferous tubules, which are responsible for sperm production. In response to luteinizing hormone (LH) released by the pituitary gland, interstitial cells produce testosterone. This hormone plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics, such as deepening of the voice, facial and body hair growth, muscle and bone mass, and sexual drive.
Similarly, in the adrenal glands, interstitial cells produce androgens, another group of sex hormones that are involved in the development of secondary sexual characteristics. In the ovaries, interstitial cells are responsible for the production of androgens, mainly in response to luteinizing hormone during the menstrual cycle.
Overall, interstitial cells play a vital role in the regulation of hormones involved in sexual development, reproduction, and various physiological processes. Dysfunction or abnormalities in interstitial cell activity can lead to hormonal imbalances, affecting fertility, sexual development, and overall health.
-
The cells of the connective tissue of the seminiferous tubules and of the septa of the testis (Leydig's cells), or of the connective tissue of the ovary, which are believed to elaborate the internal secretion of these glands.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for INTERSTITIAL CELLS
- unterstitial cells
- jnterstitial cells
- knterstitial cells
- onterstitial cells
- 9nterstitial cells
- 8nterstitial cells
- ibterstitial cells
- imterstitial cells
- ijterstitial cells
- ihterstitial cells
- inrerstitial cells
- inferstitial cells
- ingerstitial cells
- inyerstitial cells
- in6erstitial cells
- in5erstitial cells
- intwrstitial cells
- intsrstitial cells
- intdrstitial cells
- intrrstitial cells
Etymology of INTERSTITIAL CELLS
The word "interstitial" is derived from the Latin words "inter" meaning "between" and "stare" meaning "to stand". It refers to the space or gaps between structures or cells. The word "cells" refers to the basic unit of life, which are the building blocks of all living organisms. Therefore, "interstitial cells" refers to cells that are situated between other cells or structures.
