The immunohistochemical localization of the LH receptor and 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3beta-HSD) was studied in the testis of the juvenile ostrich (Stuthio camelus) throughout a 1 year period. Spermatogenic activity of juvenile birds changed throughout the year, as has been reported previously for sexually mature birds. During the active stage of the testicular cycle, from September to January, spermatogenesis progressed up to the stage of formation of spermatozoa, although spermatozoa could not be detected in the epididymis. Leydig cells stained intensely with antibodies against the LH receptor and 3beta-HSD during the quiescent, recrudescent and active phases of the testicular cycle. During the regressive phase, there was a slight decrease in immunostaining for 3beta-HSD in these cells. These results indicate that Leydig cells in the testis of the juvenile ostrich are able to respond to LH and are capable of steroid synthesis. Furthermore, in juvenile (prepubertal) ostriches, spermatogeneic activity can be observed and, as in mature birds, spermatogenesis undergoes seasonal changes.
Reproduction is committed to supporting researchers in demonstrating the impact of their articles published in the journal.
The two types of article metrics we measure are (i) more traditional full-text views and pdf downloads, and (ii) Altmetric data, which shows the wider impact of articles in a range of non-traditional sources, such as social media.
More information is on the Reasons to publish page.
Sept 2018 onwards | Past Year | Past 30 Days | |
---|---|---|---|
Full Text Views | 376 | 42 | 7 |
PDF Downloads | 97 | 29 | 1 |