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The Sertoli cell membrane body in the skink
1Department of Biology, Auburn University, Montgomery, AL 36117-3596.
Tissue & Cell
|January 1, 1992
Summary
This study details the Sertoli cell structure in Eumeces laticeps skinks, revealing a complex juxtanuclear body potentially involved in germ cell development. The findings offer insights into reptilian reproductive biology.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Cell Biology
- Herpetology
Background:
- Sertoli cells are crucial for spermatogenesis, providing structural and metabolic support to germ cells.
- The specific ultrastructure of Sertoli cells and their relationship with germ cells in reptiles like Eumeces laticeps remains incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the detailed ultrastructure of Sertoli cells in Eumeces laticeps during different reproductive phases.
- To elucidate the physical relationship between Sertoli cells and germ cells in this species.
Main Methods:
- Light microscopy of 1-micron plastic sections.
- Electron microscopy of ultrathin sections.
- Comparative analysis of Sertoli cell morphology during prenuptial and postnuptial spermatogenesis (January and September).
Main Results:
- Sertoli cells possess a basal polymorphic nucleus and a juxtanuclear body composed of endoplasmic reticulum-like membranous structures.
- This body features channels and dilated cisternae, suggesting a unified structure.
- Mitochondria, lysosomes, and microfilaments are present within the juxtanuclear body, with lysosomes showing proximity-induced dilation and microfilaments potentially involved in organization.
Conclusions:
- The juxtanuclear body in Eumeces laticeps Sertoli cells exhibits a unique ultrastructure with potential roles in cellular organization and function.
- Organelles like lysosomes and microfilaments may interact with this structure, influencing Sertoli cell-germ cell interactions during spermatogenesis.