Which of the following results due to malfunctioning of the Leydig cells?
Cryptorchidism
The interstitial tissue in between the seminiferous tubules comprise of specialised cells called the Leydig cells. These cells produce androgens such as testosterone which are responsible for the development and maintenance of male reproductive structures and functions. Malfunctioning of the leydig cells causes a deficiency in androgens which can lead to various disorders. In the foetal stage of males, the testes are formed in the abdomen and must eventually descend into the scrotal pouch. This mechanism requires stimulation by testosterone. When the foetus does not produce enough testosterone, this descent does not take place resulting in a disorder called cryptorchidism.