Human Physiology and Pathophysiology II – The Male Reproductive System

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the male reproductive system from the lecture.

Testes

Male gonads that produce sperm and androgens, including testosterone.

Erection

The process of enlargement and stiffening of the penis due to engorgement of erectile tissues with blood.

Semen

A milky-white mixture of sperm and accessory gland secretions, typically ejaculated during orgasm.

Spermatogenesis

The production of sperm in the seminiferous tubules involving mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis.

Sustentocytes

Supporting cells in the testes that nourish spermatogenic cells and help form the blood-testis barrier.

HPG Axis

Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis; a sequence of hormonal regulatory events controlling male reproduction.

Testosterone

The primary male sex hormone that stimulates spermatogenesis and promotes the development of male secondary sexual characteristics.

Ejaculation

The process of expelling semen from the male reproductive tract through contractions of muscles.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

An age-related condition in which the prostate gland enlarges, causing difficulty urinating.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

The inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.

Accessory glands

Glands such as the seminal glands, prostate, and bulbo-urethral glands that contribute secretions to semen.

Myodesis

The contraction of smooth muscle-like myoid cells in the testes that help transport sperm.

Spermiogenesis

The final stage of spermatogenesis where spermatids develop into mature spermatozoa.