Histochemical study of isolated intratubular cells of the rat testis

Summary The testes of normal white adult rats were studied with histochemical techniques for oxidative enzymes. Smears, imprints and squash preparations were used to obtain isolated cells.LDH, HDH and NADH₂-diaphorase rich granules were found close to the Golgi apparatus of spermatocytes.An increase in some enzymes was described in spermatids during the formation process of the mitochondrial helix. The differences in enzymatic properties of the mitochondrial helix and those of the cytoplasmic mitochondria suggest a process of selection and differentiation.Using a LDH-PMS medium, we found three loci of enzymatic activity, a diffuse cytoplasmic one, a Golgian activity, and a mitochondrial one. Applying Brody's method for the differentiation of LDH isozymes we demonstrated a preponderance of an isozyme non-sensible to urea or excess of lactate. This probably reflected the existence of the X-isozyme in the germinal line.All tested enzymes except MAO were positive in spermatozoa. The great activity of GDH and HDH in the middle piece provides a good link between the energetic metabolism of the spermatozoid and the oxidation of lipids.The enzymes of the Krebs' cycle, SDH, MDH and IDH were all present and we also demonstrated the presence of CO in the midpiece.G-6-PDH was present in moderate amounts.Great concentrations of these enzymes were found in Sertoli cells. Any conclusion about enzymatic distribution in sections must consider this fact.