Abstract
We studied the steroidogenic activity of isolated Leydig ceils derived from rats on fetal day 19 (F 19) and postnatal (N) days 1, 12, 24, 34, 45 and adults. Leydig cells, isolated at all ages by the collagenase method, increased in number throughout development with a doubling time of 8 days. Testicular content and serum concentrations of testosterone showed parallel changes during development. Moderate values were found at the early stages (F 19 and N 1), with a nadir on day 12, followed by a progressive increment to reach maximal values in adulthood. A reduction in steroidogenic activity of the testis during neonatal life was confirmed by urlar| vitro studies with isolated Leydig cells. Maximal activity was found in group F 9; testosterone production diminished after birth to reach a minimum in group N 34 and rose thereafter to adulthood. Leydig cells were responsive to hCG stimulation at all ages in the following order: N 1>N 34>N 12>F 19>N 24>N 45>adult. The present study demonstrates the existence of an active and hCG-responsive population of Leydig cells in the rat testis from fetal life to adulthood.
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