The Human Leydig Cell

摘要: The Leydig cells are found in the interstitial compartment of testis and major source androgens males. At least two populations differentiate sequentially as develops—a fetal population which regulates masculinization utero an adult develops before puberty fertility sex drive. A third, neonatal is also observed human may represent re-activation cells. depend upon stimulation by chorionic gonadotropin produce through canonical steroidogenic pathway also, possibly, alternative “backdoor” pathway; both pathways apparently being required for normal masculinization. Fetal secrete insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) which, along with androgen, induces testicular descent. cell persists into adulthood mice but becomes secondary to population. Development dependent on Sertoli luteinizing hormone (LH) from pituitary. humans mainly testosterone synthesized Δ5 pathway, activity LH bone-derived osteocalcin while cells, unknown factors, act maintain numbers. During aging humans, there a reduction and, tumors rare will lead precocious when they occur prepubertal boys. In about half cases these associated activating mutations machinery [e.g., hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR)].