Spermatogenesis Process and Stages

Study Notes

Spermatogenesis is the process by which immature cells in the testes develop into mature spermatozoa.

Spermatocytogenesis: Immature diploid cells called spermatogonia undergo mitosis to produce primary spermatocytes.
Meiosis I: Primary spermatocytes undergo meiosis I, resulting in two haploid secondary spermatocytes.
Meiosis II: Secondary spermatocytes undergo meiosis II, resulting in four haploid spermatids.
Spermiogenesis: Spermatids mature into spermatozoa through a series of complex changes, including:
- Development of the acrosome
- Formation of the flagellum
- Condensation of chromatin
- Reduction of cytoplasm
Spermiation: Mature spermatozoa are released from the testes into the epididymis.

Spermatogenesis is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis, involving:

Spermatogenesis is essential for male fertility, as it produces mature spermatozoa capable of fertilizing an ovum.

Spermatocytogenesis: Immature diploid cells called spermatogonia undergo mitosis to produce primary spermatocytes.
Meiosis I: Primary spermatocytes undergo meiosis I, resulting in two haploid secondary spermatocytes.
Meiosis II: Secondary spermatocytes undergo meiosis II, resulting in four haploid spermatids.
Spermiogenesis: Spermatids mature into spermatozoa through development of the acrosome, formation of the flagellum, condensation of chromatin, and reduction of cytoplasm.
Spermiation: Mature spermatozoa are released from the testes into the epididymis.

Spermatogenesis is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis, involving follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone.