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Molecular Mechanisms in Spermatogenesis pp 1–15Cite as

Spermatogenesis and Cycle of the Seminiferous Epithelium

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Part of the book series: Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology ((volume 636))

Abstract

Spermatogenesis is a complex biological process of cellular transformation that produces male haploid germ cells from diploid spermatogonial stem cells. This process has been simplified morphologically by recognizing cellular associations or ‘stages’ and ‘phases’ of spermatogenesis, which progress through precisely timed and highly organized cycles. These cycles of spermatogenesis are essential for continuous sperm production, which is dependent upon numerous factors, both intrinsic (Sertoli and germ cells) and extrinsic (androgens, retinoic acids), as well as being species-specific.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Reproductive Biology and Toxicology, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana, IL, 61802-6199, USA

    Rex A. Hess

  2. Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil

    Luiz Renato de Franca

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  1. Rex A. Hess
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Correspondence to Rex A. Hess .

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  1. Center for Biomedical Research, The Population Council, New York, New York, USA

    C. Yan Cheng PhD

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Hess, R.A., de Franca, L.R. (2009). Spermatogenesis and Cycle of the Seminiferous Epithelium. In: Cheng, C.Y. (eds) Molecular Mechanisms in Spermatogenesis. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, vol 636. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-09597-4_1

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