Page 33 - The Miracle of Human Creation

A PERFECT ARMY SET ON ITS GOAL

such a thing occurs is clear proof that the cell is under the direction of a
supreme intelligence. Moreover, that these cells are exactly at the proper
place, (that is, in the seminiferous tubules where the sperm develop,) and
that they have exactly the requisite qualities (for example, they are larger
than the spermatids) is one of the millions of proofs of the perfect design
of the human body. God has placed every one of the approximately 100
trillion cells that make up the human body in its proper place; He has gi-
ven to each one the qualities it needs; and He has given each one the ins-
tinct to do its work perfectly. As we are told in the Qur'an:
... There is no creature He does not hold by the forelock. My Lord is
on a Straight Path. (Qur'an, 11: 56)

An Interdependent System

In the preceding section we spoke about the role of the Sertoli cells in
the transformation of the spermatids into the sperm. What is the physical
force that activates these cells and makes them know their duty to nourish
the spermatids and monitor their development?
The impetus which makes the Sertoli cells perform their function co-
mes from the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which was mentioned in
the earlier section. This hormone is secreted from the anterior pituitary
gland and stimulates the Sertoli cells. If this hormone is not produced or fa-
ils to reach the relevant area, sperm cannot be produced. When the Sertoli
cells receive the stimulation, they begin to secrete a hormone called oestro-
gen, which is indispensable for sperm production. Another kind of cell that
influences sperm production is called the "Leydig" cell; it is found between
the seminiferous tubules. These cells produce another hormone required for
sperm to develop. The LH (luteinizing hormone) is secreted from the ante-
rior pituitary gland and stimulates the Leydig cells. Then, these cells begin
to produce the testosterone hormone. Testosterone is the hormone which as-
sures the growth of the reproductive organs, the development of various
glands of these organs and the development of the male sexual characteris-
tics; it is, moreover, the most important hormone in the production of sperm.

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