Module 8 Reproductive System

Question 1

What are the functions of the reproductive system?

Answer 1

To produce egg and sperm cells (gametes)
To transport and sustain these cells
To nurture developing offspring (the embryo/fetus)
To produce hormones that regulate gamete formation and for the development of secondary sexual characteristics

Question 2

Diploid

Answer 2

Contains two copies of the genome (a zygote)

Question 3

Haploid

Answer 3

Contains one copy of the genome (sperm/egg)
AKA (spermatoza or ovum)

Question 4

Gonads

Answer 4

Produce gametes and sex hormones

Question 5

Reproductive Tract

Answer 5

Tube that transports gametes from the gonads

Question 6

Exocrine glands

Answer 6

Secrete fluids into the reproductive tract

Question 7

What type of hormones are sex hormones?

Answer 7

They are all steroids

Question 8

What are the three sex hormones?

Answer 8

1. Progesterone
2. Testosterone
3. Beta-estradiol

Question 9

What is the pathway that sperm follow out of the body?

Answer 9

1. Synthesized in the seminiferous tubules of the testis
2. Travels to the epididymis
3. Leaves via the Vas Deferens
4. Reaches Ejaculatory Duct
5. Exits out of the penis

Question 10

What are the exocrine glands of the male reproductive system?

Answer 10

1. Seminal Glands
2. Prostate Gland
3. Bulbourethral Glands

Question 10

What contents are in semen?

Answer 10

1. High pH to neutralize the pH in the vagina
2. Fructose to power sperm
3. Minerals/protein/mucous

Question 11

Release of testosterone is crucial for sperm development

Answer 11

True

Question 12

Draw the pathway of the hormone development involved with sperm development

Answer 12

1. Hypothalamus releases GnRH onto Anterior Pituitary
2. Anterior Pituitary releases FSH/LH
3. Signals to cells in the seminiferous tubules to release testosterone to support sperm development
4. Release of testosterone contributes to secondary male characteristics in puberty
5. Testosterone acts as negative feedback on hypothalamus and anterior pituitary

Question 13

Some athletes take steroids that mimic the effects of testosterone, so they can build more muscle mass. These are sometimes called “anabolic” steroids, because they help the body make proteins (synthesizing proteins is an anabolic reaction, right?)

Steroids have a number of side effects such as infertility. Explain why taking steroids causes temporary infertility in people who make sperm normally.

Answer 13

The steroids also partake in the negative feedback loop and block the release of GnRH, FSH/LH from the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary glands. This slows down sperm production.