Questions and Answers
Compare and contrast the processes of spermatogenesis and oogenesis.
Both involve mitosis at the start, result in haploid gametes, and undergo two divisions of meiosis, stimulated by hormones. However, oogenesis occurs in the ovaries, starts during embryo development, pauses in prophase I, has large cytoplasm quantity, and stops at menopause, while spermatogenesis occurs in the testes, starts during puberty, has no pauses, has small cytoplasm quantity, and continues until death.
Describe the different cell types in the seminiferous tubules that are involved in the process of spermatogenesis.
Spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes, secondary spermatocytes, spermatids, Sertoli cells, and Leydig cells.
What helps to prevent polyspermy?
The cortical reaction.
What does the blastocyst secrete?
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What is the function of the epididymis in the male?
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Study Notes
Spermatogenesis vs. Oogenesis
- Spermatogenesis and oogenesis both start with mitosis and lead to the formation of haploid gametes.
- Both processes involve two meiosis divisions and are stimulated by hormones.
- Oogenesis occurs in ovaries; spermatogenesis occurs in testes.
- Oogenesis begins during embryo development; spermatogenesis starts at puberty.
- Oogenesis pauses in prophase I; spermatogenesis continues without pauses.
- Oogenesis produces a larger egg cell with more cytoplasm; spermatogenesis produces smaller sperm cells with less cytoplasm.
- Oogenesis ceases at menopause; spermatogenesis can continue until death.
Cell Types in Seminiferous Tubules
- Spermatogonia are undifferentiated cells that undergo mitosis, maturing into primary spermatocytes.
- Primary spermatocytes undergo meiosis I, resulting in secondary spermatocytes.
- Secondary spermatocytes divide through meiosis II, producing spermatids.
- Spermatids differentiate into spermatozoa, the mature sperm cells.
- Sertoli cells provide structural and nutritional support to developing sperm cells.
- Leydig cells are responsible for testosterone production, which is essential for male reproductive function.
Prevention of Polyspermy
- The cortical reaction is the mechanism that prevents the penetration of multiple sperm into an egg, ensuring only one sperm fertilizes the egg.
Secretion by Blastocyst
- The blastocyst secretes human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which plays a crucial role in maintaining pregnancy and signaling the corpus luteum.
Function of the Epididymis
- The epididymis stores and matures sperm, facilitating their development and preparing them for eventual ejaculation. It also reabsorbs unused sperm and contributes to their motility.
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Description
Test your knowledge on sexual reproduction with these flashcards focusing on spermatogenesis and oogenesis. Compare and contrast the processes, understand the hormonal influences, and learn about the differences in gamete formation. Perfect for biology students studying reproductive systems.
