Sustentacular cell

A sustentacular cell is a type of cell primarily associated with structural support.

One type of sustentacular cell is the Sertoli cell, in the testicle. It is located in the walls of the seminiferous tubules and supplies nutrients to sperm.

Another type of sustentacular cell is found in the olfactory epithelium. The internal ear (organ of Corti) and taste buds also contain sustentacular cells.

Another type of sustentacular cell is found with glomus cells of the carotid and aortic bodies.

About 40% of carcinoids have a scattering of sustentacular cells, which stain positive for S-100.