Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

27. The Reproductive System

Anatomy of the Male Reproductive System

Anatomy & Physiology

27. The Reproductive System

Anatomy of the Male Reproductive System

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Problem 6

Textbook Question

Which accessory structures contribute to the composition of semen? What are the functions of each structure?

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the accessory structures involved in the male reproductive system that contribute to the composition of semen. These include the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands.

Understand the function of the seminal vesicles: They produce a viscous, alkaline fluid rich in fructose and prostaglandins. Fructose provides energy for sperm motility, while prostaglandins help stimulate smooth muscle contractions in the female reproductive tract.

Examine the role of the prostate gland: It secretes a slightly acidic fluid containing enzymes like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and citric acid. These enzymes help liquefy semen after ejaculation, aiding sperm mobility.

Learn about the bulbourethral glands (Cowper's glands): They produce a clear, mucus-like fluid that lubricates the urethra and neutralizes any residual acidity from urine, creating a favorable environment for sperm.

Combine the contributions of these accessory structures with sperm from the testes to understand the overall composition of semen, which includes sperm cells, nutrients, enzymes, and fluids that support sperm survival and transport.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Accessory Structures of the Male Reproductive System

Accessory structures in the male reproductive system include the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands. These structures play a crucial role in producing and secreting fluids that contribute to semen, enhancing its volume and providing a suitable environment for sperm motility and survival.

Seminal Vesicles

The seminal vesicles are glandular structures that produce a significant portion of the seminal fluid, which is rich in fructose and other substances. This fluid nourishes sperm and helps to form a gel-like consistency that aids in sperm transport during ejaculation.

Prostate Gland

The prostate gland produces a milky fluid that constitutes a substantial part of semen. This fluid contains enzymes, citric acid, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA), which help to liquefy the semen after ejaculation, facilitating sperm mobility and increasing the chances of fertilization.