ISSN:
1432-0878
Keywords:
Rete testis
;
Human
;
Histophysiology
;
Chordae retis
;
Scanning electron microscopy
;
Transmission electron microscopy
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Summary The human rete testis was examined with regard to 1) the number and distribution of entrances of seminiferous tubules, 2) the light microscopic topography and 3) details of the passages as revealed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. In a newborn 1474 entrances were counted, approximately 50 % entering from the right and 50 % from the left of the central long axis. Three major subdivisions of the rete were distinguished and described: a septal (or interlobular) part represented by tubuli recti, a tunical (or mediastinal) part which is a true network of channels, and an extratesticular part characterized by dilatations (up to 3 mm wide) which we have called bullae retis. In SEM, cylindrical strands running from wall to wall in the tunical and extratesticular rete spaces are a prominent feature. We have called these chordae retis. They are covered by epithelium and are 5–40 μm wide and 15 to more than 100 μm long. They contain a peculiar tissue consisting of central myoid cells in a fibroelastic matrix. The smaller chordae are avascular. In the light of these findings the rete is interpreted as a highly complex myoelastic sponge. Its function is discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00209130
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