Opens in a new tab
Home › Body Atlas › Glands & Lymphatics › Leydig Cells
Gland Pelvis & Hip

Leydig Cells

endocrinocyti interstitiales testis

Leydig (interstitial) cells lie in the connective tissue between the seminiferous tubules of the testis. They produce about 95% of male testosterone in response to luteinising hormone.

Anatomical Data

Structure & Secretions

LocationInterstitial tissue between seminiferous tubules in the testis
Secretes
  • Testosterone
  • Insulin-like factor 3
Nerve SupplyTesticular plexus
Blood SupplyTesticular artery
Venous drainage
  • Pampiniform plexus to the testicular vein
Lymphatic drainage
  • Lateral aortic (para-aortic) nodes
Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Make testosterone, which drives sperm production, male sexual development, muscle and bone mass and libido.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Anabolic steroid use suppresses LH and shuts down Leydig cell testosterone production, shrinking the testes and reducing fertility, sometimes for a long time after stopping. Rare Leydig cell tumours can cause early puberty or breast enlargement.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Male Hypogonadism

Low testosterone from Leydig cell failure or reduced LH stimulation.

Anabolic Steroid-Induced Hypogonadism

Suppressed testosterone production and testicular shrinkage after steroid use.

This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.

Accept All Accept Required Only