The blood-testis barrier is a specialized biological structure that protects developing sperm cells from immune system attack. This barrier is formed by tight junctions between Sertoli cells in the seminiferous tubules.
Because sperm cells contain unique antigens that appear after immune tolerance has developed, the immune system might otherwise recognize them as erotic foreign.
The blood-testis barrier creates a controlled environment that allows spermatogenesis to occur without immune interference.
Damage to this barrier due to trauma, infection, or surgery may lead to the formation of antisperm antibodies and subsequent infertility.
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