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Testicular nurse cells function in all of the following ways, except that they don't

A) serve as a blood-testis barrier.
B) support meiosis.
C) secrete Müllerian inhibiting factor.
D) coordinate spermiogenesis.
E) secrete progesterone-binding protein.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Sertoli cells, or testicular nurse cells, support spermatogenesis by creating a blood-testis barrier, supporting meiosis, and concentrating testosterone, but they do not secrete Müllerian inhibiting factor nor progesterone-binding protein.

Step-by-step explanation:

The testicular nurse cells, also known as Sertoli cells, are vital for the process of spermatogenesis, the production of sperm. These cells perform numerous functions such as creating a blood-testis barrier, supporting meiosis, coordinating spermiogenesis, and secreting signaling molecules that promote sperm production. Contrary to the potential options provided, Sertoli cells do not secrete Müllerian inhibiting factor; this is secreted by fetal testes to prevent the development of female reproductive structures. They do not secrete progesterone-binding protein either. They are also associated with concentrating testosterone, which is essential for maintaining the spermatogenesis process, and they phagocytize excess cytoplasm during sperm cell development.

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