THE INFLUENCE OF THE EPIDIDYMIS ON HUMAN AND ANIMAL SPERM MATURATION AND STORAGE

The epididymis plays a crucial role in the development of mammalian sp erm maturation and storage. There is now compelling evidence from anim al studies that androgen-dependent factors secreted by the epididymal epithelium are essential for the acquisition of sperm fertilizing capa city. In the normal fertile man there is also substantial indirect evi dence for sperm maturation, although various pathological conditions m ay modify epididymal function. This brief review outlines the main fea tures of the epididymis and some of the mechanisms involved in spermat ozoa maturation and storage both in vivo and in vitro.