Which of the following specialized cells form the blood-testis barrier in human testes?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Sertoli cells are specialized sustentacular cells located within the seminiferous tubules of human testes, where they are bound by tight junctions to create the physiological blood-testis barrier. This crucial barrier protects developing germ cells from autoimmune destruction by the body's immune system. Conversely, Leydig cells are situated in the interstitial tissue and are primarily responsible for synthesizing testosterone. Sertoli cells also secrete inhibin, which helps regulate follicle-stimulating hormone secretion from the anterior pituitary.