Page 32 - The Miracle of Human Creation

THE MIRACLE OF HUMAN CREATION

these "nurse" cells (Sertoli cells) which surround them. Sertoli cells functi-
on to support and nourish the immature sperm cells by giving them nut-
rient material, hormones, and enzymes that are necessary for causing
appropriate changes in the spermatids. In the final stage of this process,
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the qualities proper to a fully developed sperm emerge the tail, the head
and the acrosome, that part of the head which is filled with enzymes. (For
detailed information see the section entitled "The Sperm Meets the Egg")
All this work of transformation is performed by the Sertoli cells fo-
und within the walls of the tubules. These cells have cytoplasmic extensi-
ons and are quite large. The Sertoli cells hold the developing spermatid
cells firmly in their arms, assuring that they are well injected into their
own cytoplasm. In this way, they will provide them with nourishment du-
ring their development, and monitor them. 4
In this process which we have briefly described, a really great mirac-
le occurs. The sperm which assures the continuation of the human race is
brought into being, thanks to Sertoli cells, which are made up of proteins
and nucleic acids. Let's think for a moment. The fact that a Sertoli cell, rat-
her a cell without intelligence or consciousness and without eyes, ears or
a brain, can devote itself to such a duty is truly a wonder. The fact that

wall of the
seminiferous tubule
primary
sertoli spermatocyte
cell
mature sperm
cell
spermatid

interstitial
cells
Seminiferous tubules, a detailed view of the structure of which is above, ensure sperm production.
Right: a cross-sectional view of the seminiferous tubule under an electron microscope. Left: the
structure of a seminiferous tubule, showing developing sperm cells in various stages.

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