Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026
05:04
Separation of Avian Preovulatory Follicle Granulosa and Theca Cell Layers for Downstream Applications
Published on: October 25, 2024
Testis development and gonadotropin secretion in broiler breeder males
J A Vizcarra1, J D Kirby, D L Kreider
1Food and Animal Sciences, Alabama A&M University, Normal, AL 35762, USA. jorge.vizcarra@aamu.edu
Poultry Science
|January 16, 2010
Summary
Management and photoperiod significantly impact testis development and function in male broiler breeders. Optimal testicular function and daily sperm production were linked to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Avian Endocrinology
- Animal Science
Background:
- Understanding male broiler breeder reproductive development is crucial for optimizing flock fertility.
- Photoperiod and nutrition are key environmental factors influencing avian reproductive physiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of different management programs and photoperiods on testis development and reproductive hormone concentrations in male broiler breeders.
- To determine the relationship between testis weight, hormone levels, and sperm production.
Main Methods:
- Two management programs (conventional and pedigree/broilerized) with distinct photoperiods and feeding regimes were compared.
- Hormone concentrations (luteinizing hormone, FSH, testosterone), testis weight, and daily sperm production were measured from 1 day to 50 weeks of age.
- Photostimulation was applied at 18 weeks to assess reproductive responses.
Main Results:
- Broilerized males exhibited significantly heavier testes by 28 weeks compared to controls.
- Luteinizing hormone, FSH, and testosterone concentrations peaked at 28 weeks, coinciding with maximal testis weight.
- Testis weight was highly correlated with FSH concentrations and daily sperm production, independent of body weight.
Conclusions:
- Management strategies and photoperiod significantly influence testicular function and development in male broiler breeders.
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations play a critical role in regulating testis function and sperm production.
- These findings provide insights for optimizing breeding programs to enhance male reproductive efficiency.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Testosterone: Functions and Regulation
The intricate hormonal interplay essential for male reproductive health begins with the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) by the hypothalamus. This hormone prompts the pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). LH targets the Leydig cells in the testes, stimulating them to produce and release testosterone. In concert with testosterone, FSH acts on the Sertoli cells within the seminiferous tubules to facilitate the release of...
01:27Testes: Histology
A tough, fibrous membrane, the tunica albuginea, covers the testes, extending inward to form fibrous partitions or septa, dividing them into internal compartments called lobules. Each lobule has 1 to 3 tightly coiled seminiferous tubules where sperm production occurs. These tubules merge into a tubular network at the back of the testis, known as the rete testis. It connects to 15 to 20 efferent ductules, leading to the epididymis.
The spermatogenic cells, responsible for producing sperm, are...
The spermatogenic cells, responsible for producing sperm, are...
01:15Development of the Sexual Organs in the Embryo and Fetus
Development of the reproductive organs in an embryo starts from a bipotential state. This means the early embryo can develop either male or female reproductive organs. The formation of these organs begins with the growth of gonadal ridges that arise from the intermediate mesoderm during the fifth week of development.
Near the gonadal ridges, two duct systems are present: the mesonephric ducts (Wolffian ducts) and paramesonephric ducts (Müllerian ducts). These ducts form the basis for the male...
Near the gonadal ridges, two duct systems are present: the mesonephric ducts (Wolffian ducts) and paramesonephric ducts (Müllerian ducts). These ducts form the basis for the male...
01:24Gonadal and Placental Hormones
The gonads, namely the testes in males and the ovaries in females, are pivotal in producing gonadal hormones that orchestrate the intricate processes of sexual development and reproduction.
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs — the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics — a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair growth — and...
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs — the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics — a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair growth — and...
01:41Spermatogenesis
Spermatogenesis is the process by which haploid sperm cells are produced in the male testes. It starts with stem cells located close to the outer rim of seminiferous tubules. These spermatogonial stem cells divide asymmetrically to give rise to additional stem cells (meaning that these structures “self-renew”), as well as sperm progenitors, called spermatocytes. Importantly, this method of asymmetric mitotic division maintains a population of spermatogonial stem cells in the male reproductive...
01:22Spermatogenesis
Spermatogenesis is a complex process that involves the development of sperm cells from undifferentiated stem cells in the seminiferous tubules of the testes. The process is essential for the production of mature and functional sperm cells that are capable of fertilizing an egg.
The process of spermatogenesis can be divided into mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. During mitosis, the spermatogonia or stem cells divide to produce two identical daughter cells, type A and B spermatogonia. Type-A...
The process of spermatogenesis can be divided into mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. During mitosis, the spermatogonia or stem cells divide to produce two identical daughter cells, type A and B spermatogonia. Type-A...