Testis Development
From Embryology
Introduction
The male gonad is the testis. The initial difference in male and female gonad development are dependent on testis-determining factor (TDF) the protein product of the Y chromosome SRY gene. Recent studies have indicated that additional factors may also be required for full differentiation.
The seminiferous tubules are considered the parenchyma of the testis.
Links: Y Chromosome | Week 1 - Spermatogenesis | Ovary | Puberty | original page
Development Overview
Sex Determination
- Humans (week 5-6)
- Germ cells migrate into gonadal ridge
- Gonads (male/female) identical at this stage, Indifferent
Gonad Development
- dependent on sex chromosome
- Y testes
- No Y ovary
SRY
SRY protein (Testes determining factor, TDF) binds DNA Transcription factor, Bends DNA 70-80 degrees
Internal Genital Organs
- All embryos form paired
- Mesonephric duct, see kidney development
- Paramesonephric duct, Humans 7th week Invagination of coelomic epithelium Cord grows and terminates on urogenital sinus
- Male Gonad (testes) secretes Mullerian duct inhibitory factor (MDIF) which causes regression of paramesonephric duct
- Male Gonad (testes) secretes Testosterone which retains mesonephric duct
External Genital Organs
- All embryos initially same (indifferent)
Testosterone differentiates male