The testis is composed of seminiferous tubules and interstitial tissue. The most important component of the interstitial tissue are the testosterone-producing Leydig cells. The seminiferous tubules contain the successive generations of germ cells, which can only exist in the presence of Sertoli cells. Sertoli cells mediate the effect of testosterone, which is indispensable for the maintenance of spermatogenesis. Consequently, the function of the Sertoli cells depends large lyon the function of the Leydig cells, and a local control mechanism between the two cell systems has been assumed. Sertoli cells are supposed to interfere with the regulation of Leydig cell hormone production (Aoki and Fawcett 1978; Sharpe et al. 1981). Few cell types of the testis have received as much attention in recent years as have the Sertoli cells. While comprehensive data had accumulated concerning the differentiation of germ cells, there was formerly little information available on the influence of Sertoli cells on this process. Only through recently developed methods and experimental approaches could their central role in spermatogene sis be verified. Sertoli cells are the only somatic cells in the seminiferous tubules. Their origin is still disputed (for references see Ritzen et al. 1981). They supposedly stem either from the coelomic epithelium or from mesenchymal cells of the genital ridges. According to Wartenberg (1978) they are derived from a gonadal blas tema containing cells from both the coelomic epithelium and the mesonephros.

The new edition of this canonical text on male reproductive medicine will cement the book's market-leading position. Practitioners across many specialties - including urologists, gynecologists, reproductive endocrinologists, medical endocrinologists and many in internal medicine and family practice – will see men with suboptimal fertility and reproductive problems. The book provides an excellent source of timely, well-considered information for those training in this young and rapidly evolving field. While several recent books provide targeted 'cookbooks' for those in a male reproductive laboratory, or quick reference for practising generalists, the modern, comprehensive reference providing both a background for male reproductive medicine as well as clinical practice information based on that foundation has been lacking until now. The book has been extensively revised with a particular focus on modern molecular medicine. Appropriate therapeutic interventions are highlighted throughout.

Sertoli cells assist in the production of sperm in the male reproductive system. This book provides a state-of-the-art update on the topic of sertoli cells and male reproduction. It addresses such highly topical areas as stem cells, genomics, and molecular genetics, as well as provides historical information on the discovery of this type of cell, and the pathophysiology of male infertility. * Presents the state-of-the-art research on topics such as stem cell research, transplantation and genomics* Includes contributions from leaders in the field, including several members of the National Academy of Science

Bovine Reproduction is a comprehensive, current reference providing information on all aspects of reproduction in the bull and cow. Offering fundamental knowledge on evaluating and restoring fertility in the bovine patient, the book also places information in the context of herd health where appropriate for a truly global view of bovine theriogenology. Printed in full color throughout, the book includes 83 chapters and more than 550 images, making it the most exhaustive reference available on this topic. Each section covers anatomy and physiology, breeding management, and reproductive surgery, as well as obstetrics and pregnancy wastage in the cow. Bovine Reproduction is a welcome resource for bovine practitioners, theriogenologists, and animal scientists, as well as veterinary students and residents with an interest in the cow.

Does exposure to environmental toxicants inhibit our ability to have healthy children who develop normally? Biologic markersâ€"indicators that can tell us when environmental factors have caused a change at the cellular or biochemical level that might affect reproductive abilityâ€"are a promising tool for research aimed at answering that important question. Biologic Markers in Reproductive Toxicology examines the potential of these markers in environmental health studies; clarifies definitions, underlying concepts, and possible applications; and shows the benefits to be gained from their use in reproductive and neurodevelopmental research.