Gonadal Steriodgenesis Flashcards
What are the two main functions of the testes?
Spermatogenesis and Steroidogenesis
What are the two compartments of the testis?
Seminiferous tubule compartment and interstitial compartment
What does the seminiferous tubule compartment consist of?
Sertoli cells and developing germ cells
What is the primary function of Leydig cells?
Production of testosterone
What are the three phases of spermatogenesis?
- Proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonia
- Meiosis
- Spermiogenesis
What is the role of Sertoli cells?
- Delivery of nutrients
- Physical support of germ cells
- Release of spermatids
- Secretion of tubular fluid
- Phagocytosis of apoptotic germ cells
- Produce androgen-binding protein (ABP)
What hormones positively regulate testis function?
- Luteinizing hormone (LH)
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
How does testosterone support sperm production?
- Acts locally on Sertoli cells
- Maintains blood–testis barrier
- Aids in Sertoli-spermatid adhesion
- Promotes release of mature sperm
What are the two main functions of the ovaries?
What are the three structurally distinct regions of the ovary?
- Outer cortex
- Central medulla
- Hilum
What is the process of oogenesis?
Development of oogonia into primary oocytes, with meiosis starting but stopping before or shortly after birth
What hormones coordinate the first meiotic division in oogenesis?
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
- Estrogen
- Luteinizing hormone (LH)
- Progesterone
What marks gonadotropin dependency in ovarian follicle development?
Development of an antrum
What is the role of aromatase?
Transforms testosterone to estradiol
What hormones does the corpus luteum primarily secrete?
- Estrogens
- Progesterone
What happens to granulosa cells after ovulation?
They become granulosa-lutein cells
What do theca cells transform into during the luteal phase?
Theca-lutein cells
What is the function of the granulosa-lutein cells?
Secretion of progesterone and estrogen
Fill in the blank: The primary role of _______ is to support spermatogenesis by providing a nurturing environment.
Sertoli cells
True or False: The second meiotic division in oogenesis occurs before fertilization.
False
