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Anatomy & Physiology: Male and Female Reproductive Systems and Meiosis

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  • What is the main difference between mitosis and meiosis in terms of chromosome number?
    Mitosis produces two diploid (2n) identical cells, while meiosis produces four haploid (1n) genetically different cells.
  • What occurs during the S-phase of the cell cycle relevant to meiosis and mitosis?
    DNA replication occurs, duplicating homologous chromosomes in preparation for cell division.
  • Describe the outcome of Meiosis I.
    Two haploid (1n) cells are produced, each with 23 homologous chromosomes consisting of two sister chromatids.
  • Describe the outcome of Meiosis II.
    Four haploid (1n) genetically different cells are produced, each with 23 chromosomes in a non-replicated state.
  • How many sperm cells mature from one diploid cell in males?
    Four haploid sperm cells mature from one diploid cell.
  • How many ova mature from one diploid cell in females?
    Only one haploid ovum matures; the other three haploid cells become polar bodies.
  • What are the main roles of the testes in the male reproductive system?
    Produce, mature, and house sperm cells; contain interstitial cells that secrete testosterone.
  • What hormone stimulates the interstitial (Leydig) cells in the testes?
    Luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulates interstitial cells to secrete testosterone.
  • What is the function of sustentacular (Sertoli) cells in the testes?
    They secrete androgen-binding protein (ABP) to concentrate testosterone and produce testicular fluid.
  • What hormone stimulates sustentacular (Sertoli) cells?
    Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates sustentacular cells.
  • Where does spermatogenesis occur?
    In the seminiferous tubules of the testes.
  • What are the main stages of sperm development?
    Spermatogenesis (sperm formation) followed by spermiogenesis (sperm maturation).
  • Where does spermiogenesis complete?
    In the tail of the epididymis.
  • What structures are gained during spermiogenesis?
    Acrosome, flagellum (tail), and midpiece containing mitochondria.
  • List the pathway sperm take to exit the testes.
    Seminiferous tubules → ductus epididymis → epididymis → ductus deferens → ejaculatory duct → urethra.
  • What accessory glands contribute fluids to semen?
    Seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands.
  • What is the role of the seminal vesicles in semen production?
    They secrete fructose, prostaglandins, and coagulating proteins and enzymes.
  • What is the role of the prostate gland in semen production?
    It secretes citrate, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and antimicrobial chemicals.
  • What is the role of the bulbourethral glands?
    They secrete mucus-like fluid to neutralize urine in the urethra and lubricate it for semen passage.
  • What controls erection and ejaculation in the male sexual response?
    Erection is controlled by the parasympathetic nervous system; ejaculation is controlled by the sympathetic nervous system.
  • What is the refractory period in male sexual response?
    A recovery phase after ejaculation during which another erection or ejaculation is not possible.
  • What are common causes of male sexual dysfunction?
    Vascular, endocrine, neurological disorders, chronic diseases, trauma, surgery, drugs, and psychological factors.
  • What is the primary function of the uterus?
    Site for fertilized ovum implantation and development.
  • What are the main layers of the uterus?
    Endometrium (inner lining), myometrium (muscle layer), and perimetrium (outer layer).
  • What is the function of the endometrium during the menstrual cycle?
    It thickens and undergoes angiogenesis to prepare for implantation; it sheds during menstruation if no pregnancy occurs.
  • What is the role of the ovaries?
    Produce ova and secrete estrogen and progesterone.
  • Where does fertilization typically occur?
    In the ampulla of the uterine (fallopian) tube.
  • Describe the stages of oogenesis arrest and completion.
    Primary oocytes arrest in prophase I until puberty; secondary oocytes arrest in metaphase II until ovulation; meiosis II completes only if fertilization occurs.
  • What hormonal changes characterize menopause?
    Decreased estrogen and progesterone due to fewer responsive follicles, leading to cessation of ovulation and menstruation.