Spermatogenesis and Sertoli cell numbers and function in rams and bulls

Abstract

The two main types of cellular associations (type I, 2 generations of spermatocytes + 1 of spermatids; type II, 1 of spermatocytes and 2 of spermatids) occupy, respectively, more than half and about a third of the seminiferous epithelium cycle in rams and bulls. However, the duration of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium and that of spermatogenesis differ between the species. A1 spermatogonia and Sertoli cell total numbers are highly correlated in adult rams and bulls. Mitosis in Sertoli cells occurs mostly in utero but may still occur for a short period after birth. Between birth and puberty there is about a 5-fold increase in the number of Sertoli cells. After that there are no seasonal- or age-related increases in the number of adult Sertoli cells. Some factors (season of birth; nutrition; genetics; hormones) affect mitosis of Sertoli cells in prepubertal animals. Sertoli cells differentiate after cessation of mitosis. Their differentiation is affected by cryptorchidism, nutrition, genetics and hormones. Their adult function is only poorly known. ABP and rete testis fluid secretions and nuclear Sertoli volume fluctuate under the influence of the same factors, but they are not always linked together. This reinforces the need for more knowledge of Sertoli cell secretions and function.