also  Ley*dig's cell  n :  an interstitial cell of the testis usu. considered the chief source of testicular androgens and perhaps other hormones - called also cell of Leydig , interstitial cell of Leydig 
 
Leydig, Franz von (1821-1908), German anatomist. Leydig's interests included comparative anatomy, histology, and physiology. In 1850 he discovered and described the interstitial cell in a detailed account of the male sex organs. In 1857 he published a major text on the histology of humans and animals that is historically important as a major account of histology's development up to that time. The Wolffian duct was discovered and described by him in 1892.
 
 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.