Human Reproductive System and Genetics

Reproductive System

• The male reproductive system consists of testes, epididymis, vas deferens, prostate gland, urethra, and penis.
• Functions of the male reproductive system include producing hormones and sperm, and transporting and storing sperm.
• The female reproductive system consists of ovaries, oviducts, uterus, cervix, and vagina.
• Functions of the female reproductive system include producing hormones and eggs, and supporting fertilization and embryonic development.

Sex Hormones

• Androgens (testosterone) and estrogens (estradiol) are the primary sex hormones in males and females, respectively.
• Sex hormones regulate the development of reproductive organs, secondary sex characteristics, and the reproductive cycle.

Physiology of Menstruation

• The menstrual cycle is a hormonal cycle that prepares the uterus for a fertilized egg.
• The cycle consists of the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase.
• During menstruation, the uterus sheds its lining, and a new cycle begins.

Fertilization

• Fertilization occurs when a sperm penetrates the outer layer of an egg, resulting in a zygote.
• The zygote undergoes several cell divisions, forming a blastocyst, which implants in the uterus.

Spermatogenesis and Oogenesis

• Spermatogenesis is the process of sperm production, which occurs in the seminiferous tubules of the testes.
• Oogenesis is the process of egg production, which occurs in the ovaries.
• Both processes involve meiosis, resulting in haploid gametes.

Pregnancy and Parturition

• Pregnancy is the period of gestation, during which the fertilized egg develops into a fetus.
• Parturition is the process of childbirth, which involves uterine contractions and cervical dilation.

Introduction to Genetics

Chromosomes, Genes, and DNA

• Chromosomes are thread-like structures composed of DNA and proteins, carrying genetic information.
• Genes are the basic units of heredity, made up of DNA sequences that code for proteins.
• DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a double-stranded molecule containing the genetic instructions for an organism.

Protein Synthesis

• Protein synthesis is the process of translating mRNA sequences into amino acid sequences.
• It involves transcription, translation, and post-translational modifications.

Genetic Pattern of Inheritance

• The genetic pattern of inheritance follows Mendel's laws of inheritance, including the law of segregation and the law of independent assortment.
• Inheritance patterns can be predicted using Punnett squares and probability calculations.