Sperm Structure and Oogenesis

Sperm Structure and Function

• The head of the sperm contains the nucleus, which is compacted with densely coiled chromatin fibers.
• The midpiece of the sperm is responsible for providing energy necessary for vigorous movement, utilizing mitochondria to produce ATP.

Oogenesis (Development of Oocytes)

• Primary oocytes get suspended at diakinesis of Prophase I during the diplotene stage of meiosis.
• Oogenesis begins during the embryonic stage, where oogonia rapidly proliferate and enter meiosis.

Oocyte Count and Follicle Development

• At puberty, each ovary contains approximately 400,000 primary oocytes remaining from the original pool formed.
• The secondary follicles transform into tertiary follicles (or Graafian follicles) as they mature.

Follicle Organization

• The formation of an inner theca interna and outer theca externa occurs as these layers organize around the growing follicle.

Gamete Production

• Millions of gamete mother cells, or oogonia, are produced through mitotic divisions during early fetal development.

Acrosome Function

• The acrosome of a sperm contains enzymes that facilitate penetration of the oocyte, aiding in fertilization.

Follicular Development

• Primary follicles get surrounded by additional layers of granulosa cells along with the formation of a new theca during their maturation process.

Learn about the structure of sperm, including the head, middle piece, and tail, as well as the process of oogenesis which leads to the formation of mature female gametes. This quiz covers essential details about sperm structure and the oogenesis process.