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ICSE Question Bank
2026Q7(iv)(a)The Reproductive System
Short answerModerate1 mark
7(iv)

What is the role of the following?

Leydig cells

Topic: Leydig cells

Previous-year question practice database

Answer

Exam answer

The LEYDIG CELLS (interstitial cells), lying between the seminiferous tubules of the testis, secrete the hormone TESTOSTERONE, which controls the development of the male secondary sexual characteristics and supports the formation of sperms.

Explanation

The Leydig cells are the ENDOCRINE part of the testis — they make the hormone. This is what links the reproductive system to the endocrine chapter, and it answers questions from either direction.

Testosterone is responsible for everything listed in Question 5(iv) of this paper — facial hair, deepening voice, broad shoulders — so the two questions connect.

Note the position: the Leydig cells lie BETWEEN the tubules, which is why they are also called interstitial cells (inter- = between). The name tells you where they are.

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