Myoid Cells - Histology

What are Myoid Cells?

Myoid cells, also known as peritubular myoid cells, are specialized cells found in the testes. They are located in the peritubular region, surrounding the seminiferous tubules. These cells exhibit characteristics of both muscle cells and fibroblasts, which is reflected in their name: "myoid" denotes muscle-like properties.

Histological Characteristics

Myoid cells possess a spindle-shaped morphology and contain actin filaments, which are typical of smooth muscle cells. They also have a basal lamina and are embedded within the extracellular matrix. Under the microscope, myoid cells can be identified by their elongated nuclei and the presence of contractile proteins.

Function of Myoid Cells

The primary function of myoid cells is to facilitate the transport of spermatozoa through the seminiferous tubules by contracting rhythmically. This contractile activity helps propel the spermatozoa towards the rete testis. Additionally, myoid cells play a role in the structural support of the tubules and contribute to the formation of the blood-testis barrier.

Role in Spermatogenesis

Myoid cells are crucial for the process of spermatogenesis. They interact with Sertoli cells and influence the microenvironment necessary for the development of sperm cells. By secreting various growth factors and cytokines, myoid cells regulate the proliferation and differentiation of germ cells.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the structure and function of myoid cells can lead to impaired spermatogenesis and male infertility. Various factors, including endocrine disruptors, infections, and genetic mutations, can affect myoid cell activity. Research into the role of myoid cells in testicular pathologies is ongoing, with the aim of developing targeted therapies for male reproductive health issues.

Research and Future Directions

Recent advancements in cell culture techniques and molecular biology have enabled researchers to study myoid cells in greater detail. Understanding the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms underlying their function may provide insights into new treatments for male infertility. Additionally, the potential regenerative properties of myoid cells are being explored for applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Relevant Publications

Single-cell sequencing has revealed a more complex array of thymic epithelial cells.

Issue Release: 2024

Loss of PBX1 function in Leydig cells causes testicular dysgenesis and male sterility.

Issue Release: 2024

Role of p57KIP2 in Stem and Progenitor Leydig Cells of Mouse Testes.

Issue Release: 2024

Reprograming skin fibroblasts into Sertoli cells: a patient-specific tool to understand effects of genetic variants on gonadal development.

Issue Release: 2024

Clear cell myomelanocytic tumor of ligamentum teres.

Issue Release: 2024

Generation of mouse testicular organoids with highly compartmentalized tubular lumen structure and their cryopreservation.

Issue Release: 2024

Fluorescence In-Situ Hybridization Assessment of Spindle Cell-Rich Testicular Sex Cord Stromal Tumors Demonstrates Multiple Chromosomal Gains Across Histologic Subtypes.

Issue Release: 2024

Testicular mosaicism in non-mosaic postpubertal Klinefelter patients with focal spermatogenesis and in non-mosaic prepubertal Klinefelter boys.

Issue Release: 2024

Perivascular Epithelioid Cell Tumor with Uncertain Malignant Potential Arising in the Round Ligament.

Issue Release: 2024

Bladder perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasm: Review on clinical features of this rare tumor.

Issue Release: 2024

Myoid gonadal stromal tumor of the testis-the novel subtype of testicular gonadal stromal tumors: a case report and review of the literature.

Issue Release: 2024

[The Roles of N-Methyladenosine Modification and Its Regulators in Male Reproduction].

Issue Release: 2024

A Rare Tumor of Intravascular Myopericytoma in the Right Renal Vein.

Issue Release: 2024

Cellular evidence and spatial distribution of endosomal biosynthesis and autophagy in intestinal immune barrier cells of crucian carp (Carassius carassius).

Issue Release: 2024

Extent of foetal exposure to maternal elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor during pregnancy.

Issue Release: 2024

Myopericytoma of the patella with local recurrence and patellectomy: A case report.

Issue Release: 2024

Clinicopathological features of myofibromas and myofibromatosis affecting the oral and maxillofacial region: A systematic review.

Issue Release: 2024

A Step Forward in Understanding the Expression of Classical Aquaporins in the Male Reproductive Tract: Study Findings in Cattle ().

Issue Release: 2024

PRC2 disruption in cerebellar progenitors produces cerebellar hypoplasia and aberrant myoid differentiation without blocking medulloblastoma growth.

Issue Release: 2023

Pancreatic lipase-related protein 2 is selectively expressed by peritubular myoid cells in the murine testis and sustains long-term spermatogenesis.

Issue Release: 2023

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