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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is true regarding the blood-testis barrier?
A
It prevents the passage of antibodies into the seminiferous tubules.
B
It is formed by endothelial cells of the blood vessels.
C
It is responsible for the production of testosterone.
D
It allows free exchange of nutrients and waste products between blood and testicular tissue.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of the blood-testis barrier: The blood-testis barrier is crucial for protecting developing sperm cells from the immune system. It prevents antibodies and other immune cells from entering the seminiferous tubules where spermatogenesis occurs.
Identify the components of the blood-testis barrier: The barrier is formed by Sertoli cells, not endothelial cells of blood vessels. Sertoli cells create tight junctions that separate the basal compartment from the adluminal compartment within the seminiferous tubules.
Clarify the role of the blood-testis barrier in testosterone production: The barrier itself does not produce testosterone. Testosterone is produced by Leydig cells located in the interstitial space outside the seminiferous tubules.
Examine the exchange of nutrients and waste: The blood-testis barrier restricts the free exchange of substances between blood and testicular tissue, allowing only selective transport to maintain the environment necessary for sperm development.
Conclude with the correct statement: The blood-testis barrier's primary function is to prevent the passage of antibodies into the seminiferous tubules, protecting developing sperm from immune system attack.