A&P400 (Reproductive system) Flashcards

1
Q

Male reprodutive system

A

..

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2
Q

functions of male reproductive system

A

1) gonads produce gametes

2) gonads produce hormones

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3
Q

male gametes are

A

sperm

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4
Q

male reproductive structure include

A

external genitalia

internal genitalia

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5
Q

external genitalia

A

1) penis

2) urethra

3) scrotum

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6
Q

penis contains

A

erectile tissue

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7
Q

penis is responsible for depositing ___ into ___

A

deposits sperm into vaigna

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8
Q

urethra, conducts ___ to ___

A

conducts SEMEN to exterior

urine(?)

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9
Q

scrotum function

A

surrounds and supports the testes

IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT SCROTUM:
—> scrotum
= SKIN
= DARTOS mm
= SUPERFICIAL FASCIA

NOT PART OF SCROTUM:
= cremaster mm
= tunica vaginalis
= tunica albuginea

ANOTHER IMPORTANT NOTE:
epididymis is distinct from TESTES

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10
Q

internal genitalia

A

1) testes

2) epididymis

3) ductus deferens (vas deferens)

4) seminal gland (seminal vesicles)

5) prostate

6) bulbo-urethral glands

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11
Q

testes function

A

produce sperm and hormones

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12
Q

epididymis function

A

the site of sperm MATURATION

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13
Q

vas deferens

A

passage that conducts sperm between…

A) EPIDIDYMIS
and c) PROSTATE

via B) EJACULATORY DUCT
(vas deferens and seminal vesicle merge into the ejaculatory duct)

—- NOTE THAT vas deferens doesn’t really go through seminal vesicle
—-> RATHER, the seminal vesicle JOINS with the AMPULLA of the Vas deferens to go to the PROSTATE, via the EJACULATORY DUCT

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14
Q

seminal gland/vesicle funciton

A

secretes fluids that make up majority (90%) of semen

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15
Q

prostate function

A

fluids and enzymes

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16
Q

fluids from prostate vs fluids from seminal vesicles

A

Secretions from the seminal vesicles make up about 60 percent of the volume of the semen

with most of the remainder coming from the prostate gland.

The sperm and secretions from the bulbourethral gland contribute only a small volume.

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17
Q

chemical properties of seminal vesicle fluids vs prostate fluids

A

Prostatic fluid is slightly acidic, but other components of semen make it alkaline overall.

This is to counteract the acidity of the vagina and protect the sperm from damage.

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18
Q

bulbourethral glands function

A

secretes fluids that lubricate the tip of the penis

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19
Q

glans etymology

A

acorn

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20
Q

bulbourethral glands also known as

A

Cowper’s glands

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21
Q

where does pre-ejaculate (pre-cum) primarily come from?

A

The Cowper’s gland is the main source of the pre-ejaculate fluid.

It is situated below the prostate and is also called the bulbourethral gland.

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22
Q

what is the function of pre-ejaculate?

A

It produces an alkaline, mucus-like fluid during sexual stimulation.

Pre-ejaculation fluid neutralizes the acidity in the urethra.

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23
Q

PATH OF SPERM

A

..

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24
Q

where sperm made?

A

Made in the testes (in LOBULES OF TESTES)

Moved to the epididymis

Then along the ductus (vas) deferens

Then along the ejaculatory duct to the urethra

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25
Q

SCROTUM

A

Cutaneous outpouching of the abdomen that houses and supports the testes

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26
Q

scrotal septum

A

Scrotal septum separates right and left cavities

—> Marked by a raised thickening (RAPHE OF SCROTUM) in the scrotal surface

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27
Q

the perineal raphe (raphe of scrotum) – function

A

The perineal raphe joins your internal septum with your scrotum.

(The scrotal septum divides the scrotal sac into two parts.)

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28
Q

Dartos etymology

A

Derived from the Greek δέρνω/derno (beat, flog) and/or δέρμα/derma (skin), meaning “that which is skinned or flayed”, possibly due to its appearance.

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29
Q

dartos muscle vs dartos fascia

A

The dartos muscle is the thin rugated fascial muscle of the scrotum made of smooth muscle. Hence it is also referred to as dartos fascia or simply the dartos.

It forms from the subcutaneous tissue of the scrotum and base of the penis and attaches to the scrotal skin and fibrous midline septum between the testes.

NOTE:
THIS MAY BE INCORRECT AS OTHER DIAGRAMS INDICATE THAT DARTOS FASCIA IS IN THE PENIS (SUPERFICIAL FASCIA OF PENIS) AND IS DIFFERENT FROM DARTOS MM IN SCROTUM

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30
Q

dartos fascia is continuous with

A

scrotal septum
—> continuous in the sense that they are the same tissue (?)
—-> appears that way in diagram

IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT SCROTUM:
—> scrotum
= SKIN
= DARTOS mm
= SUPERFICIAL FASCIA

NOT PART OF SCROTUM:
= cremaster mm
= tunica vaginalis
= tunica albuginea

ANOTHER IMPORTANT NOTE:
epididymis is distinct from TESTES

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31
Q

dartos muscle

part of or interchangeable term vs dartos fascia (?)

A

Smooth muscle in the skin of the scrotum

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32
Q

dartos muscle function

A

Elevates testes and contracts the scrotum (reduces heat loss)

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33
Q

CREMASTER MUSCLE

A

Contracts to pull testes closer to body during sexual arousal or when exposed to cold temperature

DARTOS mm vs CREMASTER mm:
“The Cremaster and Dartos muscles work together to maintain the temperature of the testicles which is responsible for spermatogenesis. The Cremaster Muscle also prevents injuries during sex, and moments of fear and flight. The Dartos Muscle is responsible for mobility, and blood supply to penile skin.”

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34
Q

why do the testicles need to be pulled closer to body during sexual arousal?

A

The cremaster muscle is an involuntary muscle and contraction can occur during arousal which can prevent injury to the testicles during sexual intercourse.

(Contraction also occurs during orgasm and ejaculation.)

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35
Q

chatgpt’s logic about why testicles need to be closer to body during sexual arousal

(could have errors)

A

“This reflex helps regulate the temperature of the testicles, keeping them at an optimal temperature for sperm production and health. The closer position during arousal can also enhance sensitivity and may help prepare the body for ejaculation. This physiological response is part of the overall changes that occur in the body during sexual excitement.”

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36
Q

scrotuma nd associated structures

A

..

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37
Q

spermatic cord

A

a bundle of nerves, ducts, and blood vessels connecting the testicles to the abdominal cavity.

Extend through the inguinal canals between testes and abdominopelvic cavity

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38
Q

spermatic cord contains layers of fascia and muscle enclosing …

A

ductus deferens

blood vessels (testicular artery and veins)

Nerves

lymphatic vessels

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39
Q

superficial (external) inguinal ring

A

Entrance to the INGUINAL CANAL

The superficial or external ring is the terminal end of the inguinal canal. It is located just superior to the pubic tubercle.

The superficial ring has a triangular shape that is made by fibers of the external oblique muscle.

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40
Q

the testes (sing. testis/testicle)

A

5 cm long; 3 cm wide; 2.5 cm thick

Each weighs 10 – 15 g

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41
Q

testes formation during fetal development

A

Form inside the body cavity adjacent to the kidneys

Late in fetal development (~ 7 months), connective tissue band contracts

Pulls each testis through abdominal musculature into the scrotum

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42
Q

tunica vaginalis of the testes

A

1) parietal layer of the tunica vaginalis

2) visceral layer of the tunica vaginalis

3) tunica albuginea of the testes

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43
Q

about the tunica vaginalis of the testes

A

serous membrane derived from peritoneum partially covers testes

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44
Q

recall – what do all serous membranes have in common?

(which also occurs at the tunica vaginalis)

A

Just like other serous membrances, fluid can collect here

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45
Q

what is it called when fluid (excess fluid?) forms in the tunica vaginalis of the testes

A

Called a HYDROCELE

“Hydrocele is the type of scrotal swelling that occurs when fluid collects in the thin sheath that surrounds the testicle.”

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46
Q

hydrocele prognosis

A

Simple hydroceles in children often go away without surgery. In adults, hydroceles usually do not go away on their own. If surgery is needed, it is an easy procedure with very good outcomes. After surgery, a hydrocele can sometimes reoccur.

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47
Q

tunica albuginea of the testes

A

dense, white, irregular CT capsule, deep to tunica vaginalis

Extends inward to form many septa, which form 200-300 LOBULES

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48
Q

each (of the 200-300) lobules of the testes are filled with …

A

2 or 3 SEMINIFEROUS TUBULES

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49
Q

seminiferous etymology

A

semen – seed

iferous – “having, bearing, or containing (a specified thing).” (ferous)

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50
Q

what is the function of the SEMINIFEROUS TUBULES

A

This is where spermatogenesis happens

**

“Seminiferous tubules are structures located inside the male testes. They consist of a network of tubes composed of unique cells known as sertoli cells. The seminiferous tubules are the site where meiosis, or the production of sex cells, takes place.”

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51
Q

order of layers of scrotum

A

1) SKIN
2) DARTOS mm
3) SUPERFICIAL FASCIA
= AKA SCROTUM

4) CREMASTER mm
5) TUNICA VAGINALIS
6) TUNICA ALBUGINEA (forming septa testis)

7) seminiferous tubules (within the septa tesis of tunica albuginea)
—> which join via/w/ RETE TESIS –> efferent ductules –> Epididymis

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52
Q

rete testis etymology

A

rete = netwrok

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53
Q

rete testis function

A

A network of small tubes in the testicle that helps move sperm cells (male reproductive cells) from the testicle to the epididymis.

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54
Q

cells of the seminiferous tubules

3 cell types

A

The seminiferous epithelium that lines the tubules consists of three cell types:

1) spermatogonia, which are stem cells

2) spermatocytes, which are in the process of becoming mature sperm cells (after becoming spermatids)

(also technically a fourth type? –> spermatids)

3) Sertoli cells, which nurture developing sperm and secrete a variety of products into the blood and the lumina of seminiferous tubules.

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55
Q

what about the spaces between the seminiferous tubules

A

Spaces between tubules contain:

1) Areolar tissue

2) Blood vessels

3) Leydig cells (Large interstitial endocrine)

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56
Q

1) areolar tissue (between seminiferous tubules)

FUNCTION

A

Provides a protective framework that keeps major structures in place and offers support. Contains mast cells that help prevent infection. The areolar tissue is also dense with collagen fibres, which makes it strong and rigid.

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57
Q

3) Leydig cells (interstitial endocrine cells) function

A

Produce androgens, such as testosterone and androstenedione (dominant sex hormones in males)

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58
Q

Sertoli cells of seminiferous tububles

aka

A

Nurse cells

or Sustentacular cells

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59
Q

function of sustentacular cells

A

extend from basement membrane to lumen of seminiferous tubule

protect, support, nourish developing sperm

phagocytize excess SPERMATID cytoplasm

produce fluid for sperm transport (probably small amount compared to seminal vesicles & prostate)

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60
Q

spermatids

A

“one of the haploid cells that are formed by the second meiotic division of a spermatocyte and that differentiate into spermatozoa compare ootid”

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61
Q

sustentacular (Sertoli or nurse) cells also …

A

release sperm into lumen

release INHIBIN (hormone)

form BLOOD-TESTIS BARRIER

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62
Q

inhibin function

A

Inhibin is a protein secreted by the Sertoli cells in men and by the granulosa cells in women.

It inhibits the synthesis and release of the follicle-stimulating hormone in the pituitary gland and reduces the hypothalamic LH - releasing hormone content.

“a gonadal hormone which inhibits the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone, under consideration as a potential male contraceptive.”

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63
Q

follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) function

A

It triggers the growth of eggs in the ovaries and gets the eggs ready for ovulation. Ovulation is when an ovary releases an egg so it can travel down a fallopian tube where it can be fertilized by sperm. In men, FSH helps control the amount of sperm that the testicles (testes) make.

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64
Q

blood testis barrier function

A

isolate developing gametes from blood

prevents immune response from developing against spermatogenic cells’ surface antigens b/c they are “foreign”

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65
Q

three other cell types of the seminiferous tubules (technically just sperm cells at various stages of development)

A

The walls of the seminiferous tubules also contains the developing sperm cell at different stages of development:

A) Spermatogonia (stem cells)

B) Spermatocytes (undergoing meiosis)

C) Spermatids (undergoing spermiogenesis)
—> Develop into mature sperm

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66
Q

what is SPERMIATION

A

Process in which a sperm loses attachment to the nurse cell (sustentacular cell) and enters the tubule lumen

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67
Q

spermatogenesis

A

The development of sperm

Complete maturation takes 65-75 days

Millions of sperm produced per day

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68
Q

4 basic steps of spermatogenesis

A

1) Creation of many SPERMATOGONIUM through mitosis

2) MEIOSIS to create gametes

3) SPERMIOGENESIS to create functional sperm

4) SPERMIATION

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69
Q

1) Creation of many spermatogonium through mitosis

A

Primordial germ cells migrate from yolk sac to testes in 5th week gestation (fetus)

Differentiate into spermatogonia & remain dormant until puberty

At puberty, spermatogonium undergo mitosis

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70
Q

spermatogonia cell features

A

diploid cells

stem cells that undergo mitosis

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71
Q

where can spermatogonia stay?

A

some stay near BASEMENT MEMBRANE of seminiferous tubule for future cell divisions and sperm production

some squeeze through tight junctions to other side of blood-testes border and differentiate into PRIMARY SPERMATOCYTES

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72
Q

blood testis barrier location

A

The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is located at the border between BASAL and APICAL compartments of the seminiferous epithelium.

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73
Q

2) MEIOSIS to create gametes

A

Primary spermatocytes
—> Diploid
—> Undergo meiosis I
—> Results in 2 secondary spermatocytes

Secondary spermatocytes
—> Haploid
—> Undergo meiosis II
—> Results in 4 spermatids

74
Q

recall haploid vs diploid cells

A

A haploid cell has only a single set of chromosomes. Most cells in humans are diploid rather than haploid, meaning they have two copies of each chromosome.

75
Q

3) Spermiogenesis to create functional sperm

A

Spermatids undergo spermiogenesis

no cell division, spermatid changes into sperm

cell changes shape from spherical to elongated

forms acrosome (cap) & flagellum (tail)

mitochondria multiply

Takes 24 days for spermatids to mature

76
Q

4) SPERMIATION

A

Spermiation is when sperm cells are released from sustentacular cell connections into the lumen of seminiferous tubules

77
Q

how do the newly formed sperm move?

A

sperm are not yet able to swim, so fluid in tubule pushes them toward ducts of testes

which fluid?
sustentacular cells produce fluid for sperm transport

78
Q

structure of sperm

A

60µm (micrometres)

Specialized to deliver chromosomes to female gamete

—> Lacks most organelles and intracellular structures in order to reduce size and mass

79
Q

sperm head

A

4-5µm long

nucleus with 23 chromosomes

ACROSOME:
cap filled w proteins (hyaluronidase & proteases) to penetrate ovum

80
Q

sperm neck

A

Contains both centrioles of the original spermatid

Microtubules of distal centriole are continuous with those of the middle piece and tail

81
Q

sperm middle piece

A

Contains mitochondria to provide ATP for tail movement

82
Q

sperm tail (flagellum)

A

Whiplike organelle that moves the sperm

83
Q

capacitation

A

Sperm released from testes are physically mature

—> But immobile and incapable of fertilizing an oocyte

Other parts of male reproductive system are responsible for functional maturation, nourishment, storage, and transport of spermatozoa

84
Q

capacitation is

A

Capacitation is the process enabling sperm to become motile and fully functional

85
Q

capacitation usually occurs in two steps

A

1) Sperm become motile when mixed with SEMINAL GLAND secretions

2) Sperm become capable of fertilization when exposed to the female reproductive tract

86
Q

when do sperm become motile

A

when mixed with SEMINAL GLAND secretions

87
Q

when do sperm become capable of fertilization?

A

when exposed to the female reproductive tract

88
Q

recap of sperm

A

Sperm moves to the penis through the reproductive tract:
1) Epididymis
2) Ductus deferens
3) Ejaculatory duct
4) Urethra

Along the way, three glands add to moving sperm:
1) Seminal glands (vesicles)
2) Prostate gland
3) Bulbo-urethral glands

89
Q

EPIDIDYMIS

A

90
Q

epididymis is considered the start of…

A

Start of the male reproductive tract

91
Q

epididymis is a …

A

Coiled tube bound to posterior border of each testis

92
Q

epididymis is lined with

A

Lined with PSEUDOSTRATIFIED COLUMNAR EPITHELIUM

93
Q

STEREOCILIA of pseudostratified columnar epithelium

A

long stereocilia that increase surface area

“branching microvilli that increase surface area for reabsorption of degenerated sperm that were stored & not ejaculated”

94
Q

are stereocilia actually cilia?

A

no

more closely related to microvilli (but still distinct):
“They are distinct from cilia and microvilli, but are closely related to microvilli.”

95
Q

what do sperm do in the epididymis?

A

Sperm undergo functional maturation here and storage (up to a month)

96
Q

epididymis regions

A

A) head

B) body

C) tail

97
Q

head of epididymis

A

Receives spermatozoa from EFFERENT DUCTULES

98
Q

efferent ductules define

A

Efferent ductules (ductuli efferentes) are small, highly convoluted and delicate tubules that connect RETE TESTIS cavities with the head of the epididymis

99
Q

body of the epididymis

A

Extends inferiorly along the posterior surface of the testis

100
Q

tail of the epididymis

A

Starts near the inferior border of the testis

Number of coils decreases here

101
Q

tail of the epididymis connects with the

A

with the ductus deferens (VAS DEFERENS)

102
Q

epididymis histology

A

1) lined with pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium

2) layer of smooth muscle

103
Q

pseudostratified ciliated (?) columnar epithelium

A

–> not actually ciliated (?)

—-> just stereocilia (?) – I.e. similar to structure of micovilli

104
Q

what does layer of smooth muscle in the epididymis do?

A

propels sperm onward w peristaltic contractions during sexual arousal

105
Q

the Ductus (Vas) deferens function

A

Stores sperm and propels them toward the urethra during ejaculation

106
Q

how long can epididymis store sperm?

A

Can store sperm for several months before they degenerate

107
Q

pathway of VAS DEFERENS

A

ascends along posterior border of epididymis

passes up through spermatic cord and inguinal ligament (goes above inguinal lig)

reaches posterior surface of urinary bladder

—> Joins ducts of seminal vesicles to form ejaculatory duct

108
Q

where does the ejaculatory duct deposit?

A

empties into prostatic urethra

(portion of the urethra inside the prostate)

109
Q

vas deferens histology

A

1) lined with pseudostratified columnar epithelium
—> (same as epididymis?)

2) covered with heavy coating of muscle

110
Q

what does vas deferens do?

A

convey sperm through peristaltic contractions

—> seems to have same function as epididymis

111
Q

ejaculatory ducts

A

union of seminal vesicle ducts & ducti deferens

eject spermatozoa into the prostatic urethra

112
Q

Urethra

A

shared terminal duct of the reproductive and urinary systems

passageway for semen and urine

113
Q

portions of urethra (3)

A

1) prostatic urethra

2) membranous urethra

3) spongy (cavernous)

114
Q

membranous vs spongy urethra

A

The second part, a short region that penetrates the pelvic floor and enters the penis, is called the membranous urethra.

The third part, the spongy urethra, is the longest region.

115
Q

seminal glands (vesicles) –> position

A

Sandwiched between the posterior wall of the urinary bladder and the rectum

(same position as AMPULLA of VAS DEFERENS)

116
Q

how is fluid secreted from seminal vesicles?

what is secreted?

A

Secretion ejected by smooth muscle lining gland

—> alkaline: neutralizes vaginal & male urethral acid

—> fructose: sperm ATP production

—> Prostaglandins: motility and viability

—> Stimulates flagellum movement in sperm

117
Q

sperm contact with seminal vesicles secretions is the first step in …

A

First step of capacitation

###

recall steps:
1) Sperm become motile when mixed with SEMINAL GLAND secretions

2) Sperm become capable of fertilization when exposed to the female reproductive tract

118
Q

seminal vesicles fluid produce __% of semen volume

A

60 % of semen volume

119
Q

PROSTATE GLAND

A

Encircles the proximal urethra as it leaves the bladder

Roughly the size of a golf ball

120
Q

prostate gland secretions contain:

A

1) seminalplasmin

2) proteolytic enzymes to liquefy semen:

3) citric acid

121
Q

1) seminalplasmin

A

Antibiotic that may help prevent urinary tract infections in males

122
Q

2) proteolytic enzymes to liquefy semen:

A

prostate-specific antigen (PSA), pepsinogen, lysozyme, amylase, and hyaluronidase

123
Q

3) citric acid

A

sperm ATP production

124
Q

proteolysis

A

Proteolysis is the breakdown of proteins into smaller polypeptides or amino acids.

125
Q

prostate gland produces what percentage of remaining semen volume?

A

Produces 20–30 % of semen volume

126
Q

bulbo-urethral glands (Cowper’s glands)

A

Located at the base of the penis
–> inferior/adjacent to prostate

Duct of each gland empties into the urethra

127
Q

bulbo-urethral glands release …

A

Secrete thick, alkaline mucus (PRE-EJACULATE)

—> Helps neutralize acids in the urethra
—> Also lubricates the tip of the penis

128
Q

semen contains

A

contains sperm and seminal fluid

129
Q

seminal fluid is from

A

Seminal fluid is from accessory glands

—> seminal vesicles
—> prostate
—> Cowper’s gland

130
Q

Semen is

A

slightly alkaline, milky appearance

2.5 to 5 ml released per ejaculation

normal sperm count is 50 to 150 million/ml

131
Q

how long does it take semen to coagulate after ejaculating

does it re-liquify

A

Once ejaculated, semen coagulates w/in 5 minutes

—> (via) clotting proteins from seminal vesicles

after 10-20 mins, semen re-liquifies

—> (via) PSA (prostate specific antigen) and proteolytic enzymes from prostate gland

132
Q

why does coagulation/re-liquification occur?

A

This occursto protect sperm cells from the acidic vaginal environment

133
Q

Functions of the penis (two functions)

A

1) Conducts urine to the exterior

2) Introduces semen into the vagina during sexual intercourse

134
Q

regions/structures of the penis

A

Root of the penis

Body (shaft) of penis

Glans (head) of penis

135
Q

root of penis

A

Fixed portion that attaches the penis to the body wall just inferior to the pubic symphysis

—> CRURA attach to pubo-ischial junction (ischiopubic rami)

—> BULBS “attached to the perineal membrane that extends from the perineum, the area between the scrotum and anus.”

136
Q

Bulb of root of penis

A

expanded, posterior continuation of corpus spongiosum

137
Q

crura of root of penis

A

2 separated, tapered portions of corpora cavernosa

138
Q

body (shaft) of penis

A

Tubular, movable
portion of the organ

139
Q

Glans penis (head)

A

Expanded distal end that surrounds the external urethral orifice

140
Q

Neck of glans

A

Narrow portion between the shaft and the glans

141
Q

Erectile tissue

A

..

142
Q

The body is composed of three erectile tissue masses:

A

Corpora cavernosa

Two cylindrical masses on the dorsal surface of the penis

143
Q

Corpus spongiosum

A

Surrounds the penile urethra

Expands at the tip of the penis to form the glans

144
Q

erectile tissue is…

A

Three-dimensional network with vascular spaces (sinusoidal spaces)

145
Q

sinusoidal spaces

A

The substance of the corpora cavernosa (erectile tissue) consists of numerous sinusoids (lacunar spaces) among interwoven trabeculae of smooth muscles and supporting connective tissue.

The corpora cavernosa sinusoids are widely communicative and larger in the center of the corpora, having a Swiss-cheese appearance.

146
Q

corpus spongiosum sinusoidal spaces

A

The structure of the corpus spongiosum is similar to that of the corpora cavernosa, except that the sinusoids are larger and a much thinner …

147
Q

in resting non aroused state…

A

In the resting state, arterial branches are constricted, and muscular partitions are tense (restricts blood flow into the erectile tissue)

148
Q

erection

A

“Each sinusoid contains endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells and blood flow into the sinusoids leads to their expansion which is necessary for erection.

Subsequently to the erection, the sinusoidal blood flows through tunica albuginea to venous system and to the dorsal vein which leads to the penile flaccid status.”

149
Q

helicine arteries

A

“The cavernous artery supplies the corpora cavernosa and branches into helicine arteries throughout the length of each corporal body. The helicine arteries supply the trabecular tissue and sinusoids of the erectile chambers. In the flaccid state, the helicine arteries are tortuous and constricted.”

150
Q

emissary veins

A

“Emissary veins begin within the erectile tissue of the corpora cavernosa and course through the tunica albuginea and drain into the circumflex or deep dorsal veins. The circumflex veins arise from the spongiosum, ventrum of the penis, and often, the emissary veins drain into them.”

emissary = from Latin emissarius ‘scout, spy’, from emittere ‘send out’ (see emit).

151
Q

does corpus spongiosum also have a tunica albuginea of its own?

A

note that one diagram didn’t show a tunica albuginea on the corpus spongiosum, whereas another one did.

ANOTHER SOURCE:
“The corpus spongiosum possesses a much thinner and more elastic tunica albuginea to allow for distention of the corpus spongiosum for passage of …”

152
Q

Phases in the male sexual response

A

Arousal

Erotic thoughts or stimulation of sensory nerves in the genital region increase parasympathetic stimulation through pelvic nerves

153
Q

what causes arterial dilation?

A

Release of nitric oxide causes arterial dilation

154
Q

what happens with NO release

A

Blood flow increases, engorging vascular channels

veins become compressed, and blood is trapped

Erection of the penis occurs

155
Q

Emission or ejaculation caused by

A

Caused by sympathetic activation

156
Q

ejaculation begins with

A

Begins with peristaltic contractions in the ampullae of the ductus deferens

—> Pushes sperm into the prostatic urethra

Contractions continue in the seminal glands and prostate

Secretions from these glands mix with sperm to form semen

157
Q

Impotence, or erectile dysfunction (ED)

A

Inability to achieve or maintain an erection

158
Q

various causes of ED

A

Vascular changes (e.g., low blood pressure)

Interference with neural commands

Psychological factors (depression, anxiety)

159
Q

how do medications that facilitate erection work?

A

Medications (e.g., Viagra and Cialis) temporarily inactivate enzymes that oppose nitric oxide (NO)

—> Small amounts of NO can then produce erection

160
Q

Hormones and the Male Reproductive System

A

..

161
Q

Hormonal Regulation via

A

Hypothalamus

Anterior lobe of the pituitary

162
Q

hypothalamus

A

Secretes gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)

—> Released at a steady rate and pace

Targets the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland

163
Q

Anterior lobe of the pituitary

A

Responds by producing two gonadotropins:

–> Luteinizing hormone (LH)

–> Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)

164
Q

Luteinizing hormone (LH)

A

Targets the interstitial cells of the testes (Leydig Cells)

—> Interstitial cells secrete testosterone and other androgens

165
Q

how are testosterone levels regulated

A

Testosterone levels are regulated by negative feedback

—> High testosterone level inhibits release of GnRH

166
Q

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)

A

Targets nurse cells of seminiferous tubules

167
Q

recall nurse cells (Sertoli/Sustentacular cells)

A

Promote spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis

Secrete androgen-binding protein (ABP)
—> Binds testosterone and keeps in area of developing sperm
—> Stimulates maturation of spermatids

Secrete inhibin
—> Inhibits FSH
—> Provides feedback control of spermatogenesis

168
Q

Testosterone

A

principal androgen

synthesized from cholesterol

Released by interstitial cells (Leydig cells)

lipid soluble
—> moves from interstitial cells, to interstitial fluid, to blood

169
Q

testosterone is controlled by

A

Controlled by negative feedback

—> suppresses GnRH & LH

—> recall
GnRH –> LH –> Leydig cells –> T

170
Q

How is DHT made?

A

external genitalia & prostate transform testosterone to DHT (dihydrotestosterone)

171
Q

Effects of Testosterone
(Prenatally)

A

testosterone stimulates development of male reproductive system & descent of testes

DHT stimulated development of external genitals

in brain testosterone converted to estrogens, which support some parts of brain development

172
Q

Effects of Testosterone
(Puberty)

A

enlarge male sex organs, spermatogenesis, sex drive

secondary sex characteristics
—> facial & chest hair
—> muscle/bone enlargement
—> increase sebaceous gland secretion
—> laryngeal enlargement

173
Q

testosterone is

A

anabolic – ie: stimulates protein production

174
Q

Effects of Testosterone
(After puberty)

A

Maintains libido (sexual drive) and related behaviors

Stimulates bone and muscle growth

Maintains male secondary sexual characteristics

Maintains accessory glands and organs of the male reproductive system

175
Q

Effects of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

A

Testosterone is converted to DHT in some tissues

Comprises ~10 percent circulating levels of testosterone

Can bind to same receptors as testosterone

176
Q

what tissue responds to DHT instead of T

A

Some tissues respond to DHT instead of testosterone

E.g.
—> EXTERNAL GENITALIA

177
Q

what tissue is more sensitive to DHT instead of T

A

Other tissues are more sensitive to DHT than testosterone

E.g.
—> Prostate and hair follicles

178
Q

what percentage of circulating T is DHT

A

Comprises ~10 percent circulating levels of testosterone

179
Q

what tissues transform T to DHT

A

external genitalia
& prostate

transform testosterone to DHT (dihydrotestosterone)

180
Q
A