Question

Sustentacular cells is another name of
A) Leydig cells
B) Oocytes
C) Sertoli cells
D) Oogonia

Answer 1

Hint:Sustentacular cells are the ones that perform the functions of structural and nutritional support.

Complete solution:
Wondering where these sustentacular cells have come from? Let us figure the answer. Sustentacular cells are generally present in different types of tissues where they perform the function of structural and nutritional support. Depending on the tissues and function-specific, they might have different names.

1) As we know in the human male reproductive system, the Sertoli cells are generally called the ‘nurse cells’ because they provide nutrition to the developing spermatozoa. They are present in the seminiferous tubules along with the spermatogonial cells, so also contribute to the structural feature of the seminiferous tubules of the testes.
Therefore, the Sertoli cells are the types of sustentacular cells owing to their nutritional functions and structural support they provide to the seminiferous tubules.
2) Let us have a glance at the other types of cells mentioned in the options, just in case there is any confusion. The Leydig’s cells, also called the interstitial cells, are present in the interstitial spaces between the seminiferous tubules in the testes of the male reproductive system. They secrete testosterone when stimulated by the luteinizing hormone.
3) Oocytes are the cells of the ovaries, undergoing different stages of meiosis (primary oocyte, secondary oocyte) to form the ovum. Oogonia are the diploid germ cells of the ovaries.

Therefore, the correct answer is option C.

Note: Sustentacular cells can be found in:
1) Olfactory epithelium
2) Organ of Corti in inner ear