Definition

Gametogenesis is a process by which diploid or haploid

cells undergo cell division and differentiation to form
mature haploid gametes

• Process of formation of gametes

• Occurs in gonads (ovary or testis)
• Occurs by meiotic division of diploid gametocytes into several
gametes or by mitotic division of haploid gametogenous cells
• The existence of a multicellular, haploid phase in the life cycle
between meiosis and gametogenesis is also referred to as
‘alternation of generations’
 4 phases

Gametogenesis is divided into following 4

phases:
1. Extra-gonadal origin of primordial germ cells
2. Proliferation of germ cells by mitosis
3. Followed by meiosis
4. Structural and functional maturation of the
ova and spermatozoa
 Gonial cells
• Before entering the meiotic division the germ
cells are termed as ‘gonial cells’
• They replicate mitotically
• Genetically identical to the original zygote
• When they begin meiosis, they are called
spermatocytes and oocytes
 Spermatogenesis
• Formation of male gamete or sperm
• Occurs in seminiferous tubules of the testis
• Occurs from puberty to old age
• Produces immense numbers of spermatozoa at an
average rate of 15 million sperm per minute
• The sperm will mature in the epididymis
 Sertoli cells
• Nourished by sertoli cells for upto 10 weeks
• Sertoli cells are supporting cell with many functions
– Formation of blood-testis barrier preventing direct entry of
nutrients and circulating substances from blood to the germ
cells
– Determine which cells reach the germ cells
– Spermatogonia are outside this barrier
– Produce androgen-binding proteins essential for
spermiogenesis
(Spermiogenesis: morphological development of spermatids to
spermatozoa)
 Sertoli cells
• Sertoli cells play a central role in the sexual differentiation of
human embryos, which takes place 6 weeks after fertilization.
• Sertoli cells develop in response to a signal from a gene on
the Y chromosome and initiate the development of testes in
male embryos.
• They also secrete a hormone called the Anti-Mullerian
Hormone (AMH), which suppresses the development of
female sex organs and germ cells.
• Leydig cells (another specialized cell of the testes) secrete
testosterone, which supports the development of male sexual
organs.
• Therefore, both Sertoli cells and Leydig cells are vital for male
embryonic development.
Sertoli cell structure
Sertoli Cells and the Blood-testes Barrier
Spermatogenesis