T2 L13: Anatomy of the male reproductive tract Flashcards
What is the SRY gene for?
It initiates the development of a male baby.
It causes cells within the gonad to develop into Sertoli cells
Without this gene functioning, there won’t be any testicular development
Which duct does the ductus deferens develop from?
The mesonephric duct
Under the influence of the SRY gene, the duct stays to carry sperm but degenerates in women
What does the gubernaculum do?
It leads the testes while they descend
When testes descend, do they cross the ureter?
Yes
At what age do testes begin to descend?
At 12 weeks. By week 32 they arrive in the scrotum
Which artery supplies the testes?
The testicular artery
Which vein drains the testes?
Veins from the pampiniform plexus
Which nerve innervates the testes?
The spermatic plexus
What is the function of the seminiferous tubules?
They are coiled tubules where sperm is produced
What is the function of epididymis?
To transport and store sperm
Why is the vas deferens surrounded by smooth muscle?
To allow for ejaculation
Describe the structure of seminiferous tubules
Highly tortuous and lined by a seminiferous epithelium
They’re surrounded by stroma, loose connective tissue
Why do Sertoli cells enfold developing spermatozoa?
- Protect them from blood antibodies
- Provide nutrients
- Phagocytose excess cytoplasm
- Secrete androgen binding protein
- Secrete inhibin
- Add fluid to the lumen
Between which layers does an inguinal hernia occur?
Between the deep and superficial inguinal rings
What goes through the inguinal canal in men?
Ductus deferens
Testicular artery and vein
Nerves
Does the round ligament go through the inguinal canal in men?
No. The round ligament develops into the vas deferens in men
The round ligament goes through the inguinal canal in women
What % of inguinal hernias affect men?
98%
What is a patent processus vaginalis (PPV)?
It allows a communication between the peritoneum and scrotum. It typically presents as hydrocele
What is the function of the cremaster muscle?
It moves the testes to suit the temperature (Closer if it’s cold and lower when its warm)
Which VAN supply the ductus deferens?
Inferior vesical and middle rectal