7 Questions
Where does spermatogenesis occur?
Testes
What do male and female gametes arise from?
Primordial germ cells
What is the result of oogenesis?
Formation of large, non-motile ova
What do primordial germ cells become in males and females?
Spermatogonia and oogonia
What is the function of the blood-testis barrier?
Preventing hormones in the systemic circulation from affecting the developing sperm
Which cells are responsible for supporting the developing spermatozoa?
Sertoli cells
Why is it important for the blood-testis barrier to prevent the immune system from recognizing the sperm as foreign?
The sperm are genetically different from the male and will express different surface antigens
Study Notes
Gametogenesis
- Spermatogenesis occurs in the seminiferous tubules of the testes.
- Male and female gametes (spermatozoa and ova) arise from primordial germ cells.
- The result of oogenesis is the formation of ova (egg cells).
Primordial Germ Cells
- In males, primordial germ cells become spermatogonia, which differentiate into spermatozoa.
- In females, primordial germ cells become oogonia, which differentiate into ova.
Blood-Testis Barrier
- The blood-testis barrier, also known as the Sertoli cell barrier, is a physical barrier between the seminiferous tubules and the bloodstream.
- The function of the blood-testis barrier is to isolate the developing spermatozoa from the immune system and prevent an autoimmune response.
- Sertoli cells are responsible for supporting the developing spermatozoa and forming the blood-testis barrier.
Immune System and Sperm
- If the immune system recognizes sperm as foreign, it would mount an immune response, damaging the sperm and making fertilization impossible.
- The blood-testis barrier prevents the immune system from recognizing the sperm as foreign, allowing fertility to occur.
Test your knowledge of gametogenesis with this quiz! Learn about the process of spermatogenesis in males and oogenesis in females, and understand how haploid cells are formed from diploid cells through meiosis and cell differentiation.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
