Question

Why is the blood-testis barrier important?

Answer 1

Blood testis barrier:

1. The blood testis barrier (BTB) is the physical barrier which separates lymphatic vessels and blood vessels from seminiferous tubules of testes.
2. The barrier is formed between the Sertoli cells of the seminiferous tubules.
3. It acts as a physical barrier to isolate the cellular events of spermatogenesis (develop of germ cells which are spermatocytes, spermatids, and sperm) and provide an ideal environment during the process.
4. It prevents toxins like cytotoxic drugs, chemicals and micro-organisms like bacteria, viruses and fungi from entering the seminiferous tubules, which protects and maintains a sterile environment for the germ cells while they are being developed.
5. It acts as a receptors for follicle stimulating hormones and testosterone.