SUPPLEMENTARY: 4
Sertoli Cells (VHP)

Sertoli cells make up about 10% of the total population of the germinal epithelium. They are not seen in division, nor are they sensitive to radiation or heat like spermatogenic cells. Sertoli cells are triangular with their bases on the basement membrane of the tubule and apex reaching to the lumen. Although it is not possible to see the cell boundaries with the light microscope, the nuclei are easily identified a short distance from the basement membrane. The nucleus (1) is often indented or folded, with a well-marked nucleolus.

Electron microscopy has shown that spermatogenic cells are embedded in deep pockets in the cell membrane and that the Sertoli cells are connected by layers of tight junctions which create the blood testis barrier.

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