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Describe the structure and function of the fallopian tubes in the female reproductive system.
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The fallopian tubes transport ova from the ovaries to the uterus. They are also the site where fertilization typically occurs.
What are the key functions of sex accessory glands in the male reproductive system?
The seminal vesicles, prostate, and bulbourethral glands secrete fluids that form semen. These fluids provide nutrients, enzymes, and alkaline conditions to protect sperm and facilitate their mobility and function.
What is the significance of the luteal phase in the menstrual cycle?
The luteal phase occurs after ovulation when the corpus luteum forms and secretes progesterone and some estrogen, which prepare the endometrium for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.
Describe the role of the scrotum in male reproduction.
The scrotum regulates the temperature of the testis, maintaining it at about 2-2.5°C lower than the body's core temperature. This lower temperature is essential for effective spermatogenesis.
What is the significance of the blastocyst stage in embryonic development?
The blastocyst stage, which follows cleavage and morula formation, involves the differentiation of cells into the trophoblast and inner cell mass. It is crucial for successful implantation in the uterine wall.
Outline the stages of oogenesis in the female reproductive system.
Oogenesis involves: proliferation of oogonia by mitosis; primary oocytes undergo the first meiotic division forming secondary oocytes and a polar body; secondary oocyte completes the second meiotic division upon fertilization, resulting in an ovum and a second polar body.
What is the role of FSH and LH in male reproduction?
FSH stimulates spermatogenesis by acting on Sertoli cells, while LH induces testosterone production from Leydig cells. Testosterone then supports spermatogenesis and secondary sexual characteristics.
What are the roles of oxytocin during parturition?
Oxytocin induces strong uterine contractions required for labor, facilitating the process of childbirth.
Describe the acrosome reaction during fertilization.
The acrosome reaction involves the release of enzymes from the sperm's acrosome, allowing it to penetrate the zona pellucida of the oocyte, leading to fertilization and zygote formation.
Explain the hormonal regulation during the menstrual cycle.
The hypothalamus releases GnRH, which stimulates the pituitary to release FSH and LH. FSH stimulates follicle growth and estrogen production. LH surge triggers ovulation and formation of the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone and moderate estrogen levels to maintain the endometrium.
What are the primary sex organs responsible for in the male and female reproductive systems?
In males, the primary sex organ is the testis, responsible for gametogenesis and secretion of sex hormones. In females, the primary sex organ is the ovary, responsible for ova production and the secretion of sex hormones.
What is the role of the epididymis in the male reproductive system?
The epididymis is responsible for the maturation, storage, and transport of sperm.
How does human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) support pregnancy?
hCG maintains the corpus luteum during early pregnancy, ensuring continued progesterone and estrogen production to sustain the uterine lining and prevent menstruation.
Describe the process of spermiogenesis.
Spermiogenesis is the maturation of spermatids into spermatozoa. It involves nuclear condensation, formation of the acrosome, and development of the flagellum for motility.
What are the three germ layers formed during embryogenesis and their significance?
The three germ layers are ectoderm (forms skin and nervous system), mesoderm (forms muscles, skeleton, circulatory and excretory systems), and endoderm (forms the gut and associated structures).
Explain the hormonal changes during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle.
During the follicular phase, the pituitary gland releases FSH, stimulating follicle growth in the ovaries. Growing follicles secrete estrogen, which leads to the proliferation of the endometrial lining.
Differentiate between spermatogenesis and spermiation.
Spermatogenesis is the process of forming sperm from spermatogonia, including both mitotic and meiotic phases. Spermiation is the release of mature spermatozoa from Sertoli cells into the lumen of seminiferous tubules.
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