Physiology - Lads

Question 1

List the major male reproductive hormones?

Answer 1

• GnRH (Hypothalamus)
• Gonadotrophins LH & FSH (Ant Pit)
• Testosterone (Testis)

Question 2

Sperm is produced where?

Answer 2

In the seminiferous tubules of the testes

Question 3

What cells are found int he seminiferous tubules and what are their actions?

Answer 3

• Germ cells (spermatogonia) produce sperm
• Sertoli cells produce inhibin and support germ cells
• Interstitial or Leydig cells produce testosterone

Question 4

What does inhibin do?

Answer 4

Have a -ve feedback effect on FSH- stimulates spermatogenesis

Question 5

So we know the Gonadotrophins are important in male reproduction, describe the action of FSH?

Answer 5

Induces spermatogenesis in the spermatogonia within the seminiferous tubules

Question 6

So we know the Gonadotrophins are important in male reproduction, describe the action of LH?

Answer 6

Triggers Leydig cells to produce androgens resulting in:

1) Sustentactular cells within the seminiferous tubules
2) 2nd* male sex characteristics

Question 7

Where does sperm go from the testes?

Answer 7

• Efferent Ductules to the epididymis

- Then its carried by the Vas (ductus) deferens to meet the ducts from the seminal vesicles/prostate

Question 8

What do the seminal vesicles/prostate produce?

Answer 8

Semen

Question 9

Where does semen/sperm mix go after the vas deferens/Seminal vesicle duct?

Answer 9

Travels the ejaculatory duct to the urethra from which it is then ejaculated

Question 10

Describe the process of spermatogenesis:

Answer 10

Spermatogonium underoges mitosis –> Primary Spermatocyte

1* Spermatocyte undergoes Meiosis I –> 2 2* spermatocytes

2* spermatocytes undergo meiosis II –> 4 Spermatids

Spermatids undergo Spermiogenesis to form mature sperm cells

Question 11

Describe the lifespan of a sperm

Answer 11

takes 60-75 days to be produced

Takes 10-14 days to be transported to the epidydimis

Takes about 30 seconds to ejaculate

Question 12

How many sperm are produced per day?

Answer 12

30million a day

Question 13

How many sperm are in ejaculate?

Answer 13

20-100 million per ml

Question 14

List some factors than can effect oogenesis/spermatogenesis?

Answer 14

Hormonal:

• Genetics
• Tumours
• Meds
• Functional problems

Production Site:

• Genetic
• Cancer treatment
• Surgery
• Trauma
• Infection