Which one of the following cells secrete androgen hormones in human being?

Question

UnlockIAS · Accepted Answer

Correct — B, the cells of Leydig. These interstitial cells lie in the connective tissue between the seminiferous tubules of the testis and secrete androgens (chiefly testosterone). They are switched on by Luteinizing Hormone (LH) from the anterior pituitary, and testosterone drives male secondary sexual characters and supports sperm production.

Why the other options are wrong — (a) Sertoli (nurse) cells sit inside the seminiferous tubules and nourish developing sperm; they secrete inhibin and androgen-binding protein under FSH — not androgens themselves.  (c) The germinal (spermatogenic) cells divide to form sperm. They are the target of the hormonal environment, not an endocrine source of androgen.  (d) Mucus (goblet) cells line surfaces such as the gut and airways and secrete protective mucus; they have no role in hormone production.

Concept: The testis has two functional cell populations. Leydig cells (endocrine) make testosterone; Sertoli cells (supporting) nurse the germ cells and regulate spermatogenesis. The pituitary controls both: LH → Leydig cells → testosterone, and FSH → Sertoli cells → sperm support.

State PCS 2019 Q82 — Science & Technology PYQ with Answer

State PCS 2019 Q82 — Science & Technology PYQ with Answer