Spermatogenesis occurs within the seminiferous tubules of the testes. These tubules are highly convoluted structures located inside the testes where sperm cell production takes place
. More specifically:
- The process begins with spermatogonial stem cells located near the basement membrane of the seminiferous tubules.
- These stem cells undergo mitotic divisions to produce spermatogonia.
- Spermatogonia then differentiate into primary spermatocytes, which move toward the lumen of the tubules as they mature.
- Primary spermatocytes undergo meiosis I to form secondary spermatocytes, which then undergo meiosis II to produce haploid spermatids.
- Spermatids transform into mature spermatozoa through spermiogenesis.
- Mature spermatozoa are eventually released into the lumen of the seminiferous tubules and then transported to the epididymis for further maturation and storage
Supporting cells called Sertoli cells are also found within the walls of the seminiferous tubules; they nourish and support the developing sperm cells and help transport them toward the lumen
. In summary, spermatogenesis occurs in the seminiferous tubules, starting at the tubule walls and progressing inward to the lumen where mature sperm are released
