MORPHOMETRY OF RAT GERM-CELLS DURING SPERMATOGENESIS

Background: There has never been a study of the components of germ cel ls as they progress through spermatogenesis. Methods: The structural c hanges taking place in rat germ cells, from spermatogonia to late sper matids, were studied utilizing morphometric techniques conducted large ly at the ultrastructural level. Results: Volume and surface area para meters for virtually all cellular and subcellular features were obtain ed for nine periods during the spermatogenic cycle. Virtually all germ cell components show dynamic properties associated with specific phas es of their development. Conclusions: The data provided can be used in an objective way to characterize structural changes taking place duri ng spermatogenesis and to relate those structural changes to functiona l properties of germ cells. (C) 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.