Testes

The testes are paired sex glands of the male body that perform two main functions: the formation of sperm and the production of male sex hormones (androgens).

Each testis consists of convoluted seminiferous tubules where spermatogenesis occurs. Between the tubules are interstitial Leydig cells that produce testosterone. This hormone plays a key role in the formation of secondary male sexual characteristics (hair growth on the face and body, deepening of the voice, increase in muscle mass, etc.), and also stimulates the maturation of sperm.

With cryptorchidism (undescended testes into the scrotum), degeneration of the seminiferous tubules occurs, but the interstitial cells are preserved. This is due to the fact that normal spermatogenesis requires a lower temperature (about 2-3°C below body temperature) than in the abdominal cavity. Elevated temperature destroys the seminiferous tubules, but does not affect the production of hormones.

Castration, that is, removal of the testes, leads to the cessation of androgen production and the development of feminizing characteristics (eunuchoidism). However, hormone replacement therapy allows you to restore normal hormonal levels.

Thus, the testes perform two vital functions in men - reproductive and endocrine. Their normal functioning is critical for men's health and fertility.