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Questions and Answers
What is the infundibulum?
What is the infundibulum?
The infundibulum is the first section of the uterine tube (oviduct) and is a funnel-like structure that receives the oocyte via finger-like projections, called fimbria.
What is the ampulla?
What is the ampulla?
The ampulla is the section of the uterine tube (oviduct) where the oocyte is fertilised. If fertilisation fails, the oocyte is reabsorbed.
What is the isthmus?
What is the isthmus?
The isthmus is the third section of the uterine tube (oviduct) and joins the uterus.
What is the zona pellucida?
What is the zona pellucida?
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What are the three main components of the uterus?
What are the three main components of the uterus?
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What are the seven features of a Graafian follicle?
What are the seven features of a Graafian follicle?
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What is a corpus luteum?
What is a corpus luteum?
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What are the main structures of the female reproductive system?
What are the main structures of the female reproductive system?
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What is an atretic follicle?
What is an atretic follicle?
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What are the functions of the female reproductive tract?
What are the functions of the female reproductive tract?
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What is the corona radiata?
What is the corona radiata?
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Which epithelium is found in oviducts?
Which epithelium is found in oviducts?
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Which main hormone is vital to folliculogenesis?
Which main hormone is vital to folliculogenesis?
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Where do the ampulla and isthmus meet?
Where do the ampulla and isthmus meet?
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What are the three main layers of tissue within the uterus?
What are the three main layers of tissue within the uterus?
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Name the three sections of the uterine tube (oviduct).
Name the three sections of the uterine tube (oviduct).
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What is corpus albicans?
What is corpus albicans?
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Study Notes
Female Reproductive System
- Infundibulum: First section of the uterine tube; funnel-shaped with fimbriae that capture the oocyte.
- Ampulla: Location of fertilisation in the uterine tube; if fertilisation does not occur, the oocyte is reabsorbed.
- Isthmus: Third section of the uterine tube; connects to the uterus.
Oocyte Development
- Zona Pellucida: Thick glycoprotein membrane surrounding the developing oocyte; essential for oocyte development, sperm binding, and preventing polyspermy.
- Grafian Follicle: Mature follicle with seven key features: theca externa, theca interna, follicular fluid, antrum, corona radiata, zona pellucida, and nucleus.
- Atretic Follicles: Non-developing follicles, often stagnating at the primary stage; can undergo atresia at any development phase.
Structures and Functions of the Female Reproductive System
- Uterus Components: Comprised of uterine horns, body, and cervix.
- Main Structures: Ovaries, uterine tubes (oviducts), uterus, vagina, and vulva.
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Functions of the Female Reproductive Tract:
- Development, maturation, and transport of gametes.
- Support for pregnancy and parturition.
Hormonal Influence
- Corpus Luteum: A yellow body in the ovary formed post-ovulation; secretes progesterone and some estrogen to support pregnancy. If no fertilisation occurs, it degenerates into a corpus albicans.
- Folliculogenesis: Requires FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone), produced by gonadotrophs in the anterior pituitary.
Histology and Tissue Layers
- Epithelial Types in Oviducts: Composed of ciliated cuboidal and non-ciliated (peg) epithelial cells.
- Uterine Tissue Layers: Three layers of tissue: endometrium (innermost), myometrium (muscular layer), and serosa (outer layer).
Junction Points
- Ampullary-Isthmic Junction: The meeting point of the ampulla and isthmus in the uterine tube.
Additional Definitions
- Corona Radiata: Layer of granulosa cells surrounding the oocyte; protects the oocyte and is essential for fertilisation.
- Corpus Albicans: A fibrous scar left in the ovary after the breakdown of a corpus luteum by macrophages.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the female reproductive system, including the structures, functions, and processes involved in oocyte development. This quiz covers key components like the infundibulum and the Grafian follicle, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of this vital biological system.