Lecture 33 - Chapter - 27 - Reproductive System Flashcards
What is the function of the scrotum?
The scrotum is a sac of skin and superficial fascia that contains the paired testes. It helps regulate the temperature of the testes, which is necessary for sperm production.
Where does sperm production occur?
Sperm production occurs in the seminiferous tubules, which are located within the testes.
What are the components of the male duct system?
The male duct system includes the epididymis, ductus deferens, ejaculatory duct, and urethra.
What are the functions of the seminal glands?
The seminal glands produce viscous alkaline seminal fluid, which contains fructose, citric acid, prostaglandins, and comprises 70% of semen volume.
Semen needs alkaline to survive the acidic environment in the vagina.
What is the role of the prostate gland?
The prostate gland secretes milky, slightly acidic fluid that contains citrate, enzymes, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA). It plays a role in sperm activation and enters the prostatic urethra during ejaculation.
What is the function of the bulbourethral glands?
The bulbourethral glands produce thick, clear mucus during sexual arousal, which neutralizes traces of acidic urine in the urethra.
What is semen composed of?
Semen is a milky-white mixture of sperm and accessory gland secretions. It contains fructose for ATP production, protects and activates sperm, neutralizes acidity, enhances motility, and contains hormones and enzymes.
What is spermatogenesis?
Spermatogenesis is the process of sperm production in the seminiferous tubules of the testes.
What are the main steps of spermatogenesis?
The main steps of spermatogenesis are
1. mitosis of spermatogonia
2. meiosis (resulting in the formation of spermatocytes and spermatids)
3. spermiogenesis (maturation of spermatids into sperm).
What is spermiogenesis?
Spermiogenesis is the process where spermatids transform into spermatozoa (sperm) through elongation, loss of excess cytoplasm, and the formation of a tail.
What is the role of sustentocytes in spermatogenesis?
Sustentocytes, also known as Sertoli cells, provide support to developing cells in the seminiferous tubules. They supply nutrients, signals, and secrete testicular fluid for sperm transport. They also remove faulty germ cells and excess cytoplasm through phagocytosis.
What is the role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis in regulating male reproductive function?
The HPG axis involves a sequence of hormonal events between the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary gland, and testes. It regulates the production of gametes and sex hormones. Hormones involved include GnRH, FSH, LH, testosterone, and inhibin.
What are the effects of testosterone on the male reproductive system?
Testosterone, synthesized from cholesterol, stimulates spermatogenesis, promotes the maturation of sex organs, develops secondary sex characteristics, and influences libido. It also has anabolic effects throughout the body.
What are sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
STIs, also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or venereal diseases (VDs), are infections transmitted through sexual contact. They are the most important cause of reproductive disorders.
What are the symptoms and characteristics of gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that affects the mucosae of the reproductive and urinary tracts. It is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae and can lead to urethritis, painful urination, discharge of pus, and other symptoms.
