Male Reproduction & Meiosis Flashcards
(29 cards)
What are the consequences of non-descent of the testes.
Non-descent of the testes can lead to several issues: testosterone will not be circulated in the body, sperm will have no means of exit, an inadequate blood supply will slow the development of the testes, and viable sperm will not be produced.
Explain the role of the bulbourethral glands in the male reproductive system.
The bulbourethral glands drain into the spongy urethra, contributing to the fluid that helps lubricate the urethra during ejaculation.
Define spermatogenesis and its significance.
Spermatogenesis is the process of sperm cell development, starting from spermatogonia and resulting in mature spermatozoa. It is self-perpetuating, meaning that the process continues to produce sperm throughout a male’s reproductive life.
How does the process of spermatogenesis begin?
Spermatogenesis begins with spermatogonia, which are diploid cells that undergo mitotic division to maintain the stem cell population and produce primary spermatocytes.
Explain the transition from primary spermatocyte to secondary spermatocyte.
The primary spermatocyte undergoes the first meiotic division, resulting in two secondary spermatocytes, each containing two copies of 23 chromosomes joined together.
Describe the characteristics of a secondary spermatocyte.
A secondary spermatocyte has two copies of each of the 23 chromosomes, but these copies are joined together, and it is haploid (N) after the second meiotic division.
What changes occur during the conversion of a spermatid to a spermatozoan?
The conversion of a spermatid to a spermatozoan involves structural reorganization, including the reorganization of the nucleus and cytoplasm, as well as the development of a flagellum.
How many chromosomes does a spermatid contain?
A spermatid contains 22 autosomal chromosomes plus either an X or Y chromosome, making it haploid.
What is the significance of maintaining a supply of spermatogonia?
Maintaining a supply of spermatogonia is crucial for continuous sperm production, as they serve as the starting point for spermatogenesis.
Describe the final stage of sperm development.
The final stage of sperm development is the transformation into spermatozoa, which are then released into the reproductive tract.
Describe the role of Sertoli cells in spermatogenesis.
Sertoli cells nourish developing spermatozoa, secrete fluid into the seminiferous tubule lumen, digest cytoplasm discarded by spermatozoa, bind FSH and testosterone, and produce inhibin.
Explain the significance of the blood-testis barrier.
The blood-testis barrier, created by tight junctions between Sertoli cells, protects developing sperm from the immune system and creates an avascular environment for meiosis.
Define the function of Leydig cells in the male reproductive system.
Leydig cells, located between seminiferous tubules, secrete testosterone in response to LH stimulation, supporting spermatogenesis and the function of accessory organs.
How do Sertoli cells contribute to the structure of the seminiferous tubules?
Sertoli cells sit on the basement membrane and create two compartments through tight junctions: the basal compartment and the adluminal compartment, where spermatids and spermatocytes develop.
Outline the role of seminal vesicles in male reproduction.
Seminal vesicles secrete a viscous, yellow fluid rich in fructose, which provides energy for sperm motility.
What is the importance of fructose in the fluid secreted by seminal vesicles?
Fructose serves as an energy source for sperm, enhancing their motility and viability.
Do Sertoli cells have a role in hormone interaction?
Yes, Sertoli cells bind FSH and testosterone, which are crucial for the regulation of spermatogenesis.
Explain the relationship between Leydig cells and LH.
Leydig cells have receptors for LH, and when stimulated by LH, they secrete testosterone, which is essential for supporting spermatogenesis.
Describe the environment in which meiosis occurs in the testes.
Meiosis occurs in an avascular environment created by the blood-testis barrier, which is essential for protecting developing sperm.
How do Sertoli cells assist in the maturation of spermatozoa?
Sertoli cells provide nourishment, support, and a protective environment for developing spermatozoa throughout their maturation process.
Describe the role of the prostate gland in male reproductive health.
The prostate gland secretes a thin, milky fluid that helps to neutralize the acidity of the male urethra and the female vagina.
Explain the function of the epididymis in sperm development.
The epididymis is where sperm spend approximately 20 days, allowing for sustained motility and the ability to bind to an egg.
Define the purpose of Bulbourethral Glands in the male reproductive system.
Bulbourethral Glands produce a thick, clear mucus that helps to neutralize traces of acidic urine in the urethra.
How do GnRH, FSH, LH, testosterone, and inhibin contribute to male reproductive function?
GnRH stimulates the release of FSH and LH from the anterior pituitary, which in turn regulate testosterone production and spermatogenesis, while inhibin provides feedback to control FSH levels.
