Development of the Testis

Basic Anatomy of the Testicle The testis (singular) or testicles (plural) is the male gonad. The word testis means "witness" in Latin, and its application to the male gonad originates from ancient Rome, men taking an oath placed one hand on their genitals (Silverthorn, 2001). The testes are contained in a pouch of skin termed the scrotum (Fig. 3a), located outside of the body because they require a temperature 2 - 3 degrees Celsius lower than the rest …

…extended of deviation from normal conditions. It continues to function throughout the lifetime of the body, without any abrupt cessation of gametogenesis as seen in female menopause. In fact there is no difference in sperm produced at any age in initiating pregnancy (Plas et al, 2000). It is hoped that by increasing the knowledge of testicular influence on other facets will be able to combat the deleterious symptoms associated with aging in males through hormone therapy.