Purification and characterization of Leydig cells from rat testes.

An LH-responsive Leydig cell preparation (containing 6+/-2% Leydig cells) was obtained by collagenase treatment of rat testis. Centrifugation of this cell preparation through a 13% Ficoll solution for 10 min at 1500 g resulted in a four times purification of the Leydig cells, with a concomitant increases in steroidogenic activity. Addition of 0-2% albumin to the 13% Ficoll solution, adjusted to 280 mosmol/l, resulted in a further twofold purification of the Leydig cells paralleled by a twofold increase in steroidogenic activity.