Chapter 12 (Spermatozoa Female Tract) Flashcards
What are the two primary losses for sperm in the female tract?
- Retrograde
- Phagocytosis
What term describes sperm loss due to traveling in the wrong direction?
Retrograde
What is the term used to describe the loss of sperm cells due to consumption by immune cells?
Phagocytosis
(T/F) Immune cells avoid killing sperm cells
False, they are indiscriminate
(T/F) Capacitation is required for fertilization
True
What happens to the head of the sperm once it has been ejaculated and why?
It becomes rigid with proteins that function to prevent the sperm from binding to other surfaces
What does the term “fully capacitated” refer to?
When there are no more proteins bound to the head of the sperm
What type of reaction occurs when sperm binds to the oocyte?
Acrosomal reaction
What occurs during the acrosomal reaction?
- The case membrane (zone pellucida) disintegrates
- Allows for sperm to digest through
What is significant about the acrosomal reaction?
It is a local effect so only one sperm can get through at a binding site
What happens once the sperm reaches the oocyte membrane?
- Fusion occurs and the zone pellucida hardens
- This traps the sperm that are still making their way through
What does the term “polyspermy” refer to?
When the oocyte is fertilized by more than one sperm
What does polyspermy result in?
Death of the embryo
Compare the uterine horn, uterine body, and cervix for describing retrograde loss through AI
Similar for uterine horn and body
Much higher for cervix
Type of AI where semen is deposited past the cervix
Transcervical insemination
Cow, Mare
