Medical expert of the article
New publications
The endocrine part of the sex glands
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
The testicle (testis) in men and the ovary (ovarium) in women, in addition to sex cells, produce and secrete sex hormones into the blood, under the influence of which secondary sexual characteristics are formed.
The endocrine function in the testicle is performed by the interstitium, represented by glandular cells - interstitial endocrinocytes of the testicle (Leydig cells). These cells are located in the loose connective tissue between the convoluted seminiferous tubules, next to the blood and lymphatic capillaries. Interstitial endocrinocytes of the testicle secrete the male sex hormone testosterone (androgen), which affects the development of the genitals, puberty, spermatogenesis, the formation of secondary sexual characteristics, and sexual behavior.
The ovary produces the sex hormones estrogen (folliculin) and progesterone and a small amount of androgens.
Estrogens secreted by the cells of the granular layer of maturing follicles influence the development of the genitals and body according to the female type, sexual behavior, and stimulate the proliferation of the uterine mucosa during the menstrual cycle.
Progesterone, synthesized by the cells of the corpus luteum - luteocytes, prepares the mucous membrane of the uterus to receive a fertilized egg, affects the development of the placenta, mammary glands, and also delays the growth of new follicles.
[ What's bothering you?
What do need to examine?