Reproductive system Flashcards
What is in the head of a spermie?
Either an X or Y chromosome (+22 other chromosomes), enzymes, coagulants, but no mitochondria
Why are testes outside the body?
Ideal temp for enzymes catalyzing many steps in transformation of immature spermies into functional swimmers is a few degrees below core temp
In what structure do mature spermies ascend?
Vas deferens
Describe ovulation
One egg in one ovary is nourished and enlarged and then tears away from the ovary bed to enter the fallopian tube. Cilia sweep medially towards uterus- fertilization follows in distal fallopian tube
What 4 factors determine gender?
- Sex chromosomes and genes on other chromosomes 2. Hormones produced by mother at specific times 3. Hormones produced by fetus at specific times 4. Proper functioning of hormone receptors on target cells
What is a chromosome?
packaging for certain proteins (i.e. histones) and DNA
How does age play a role in the quality of sperm?
As males age, they may have more abnormalities in their sperm because the enzymes responsible for transformation and organization of chromosomes are being built by older genes, so more mutations are likely
How might something traveling up the vagina enter the abdominopelvic cavity?
Females have an open system, so something can travel up the fallopian tubes out of the fimbriae and into the abdominal cavity
When do testes and ovaries normally descend during development?
Last trimester
What happens in endometriosis?
Stem cells from the uterine wall may travel along the fallopian tube and go into pelvic cavity and attach to intestines, ovaries, fimbriae, etc. Next month those implanted endometrial cells can also tear away with blood and it’s very painful
Why might a pregnant female need to go to the emergency room when presenting with heavy bleeding at weeks 6-8?
She could have an ectopic pregnancy if an egg implanted beyond the uterus and the blastocyst ruptured the fallopian tube (For example) causing the mom to bleed out
