Epididymal Smooth Muscle Cells (EpSMC)

Epididymal smooth muscle cells are a type of muscle cell found in the epididymis, a part of the male reproductive system. These cells have a spindle-shaped morphology and are responsible for the contraction of the smooth muscle tissue in the epididymis.

In the epididymis, smooth muscle cells play a crucial role in the movement of sperm from the testes to the vas deferens. During ejaculation, these cells contract to help propel sperm through the epididymis and into the vas deferens for eventual ejaculation.

Epididymal smooth muscle cells can also respond to hormonal signals, such as testosterone, which can influence their contractile activity. Additionally, these cells can undergo hypertrophy and hyperplasia in response to various stimuli, such as injury or inflammation.