Male Reproductive Physiology

Erection

A stiffening and enlargement of the penis allowing for penetration in reproduction.

Ej ejaculation

The propulsion of semen through the duct system of the male.

Autonomic nervous system

Part of the nervous system that regulates involuntary bodily functions, including the sexual response.

Parasympathetics

The part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the erection.

Sympathetics

The part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for ejaculation.

Corpora cavernosa

The erectile tissue that fills with blood during an erection.

Corpus spongiosum

The tissue that surrounds the urethra, keeping it open during ejaculation.

Spermatogenesis

The process of sperm production within the male reproductive system.

Seminiferous tubules

Structures within the testes where spermatogenesis occurs.

Leydig cells

Interstitial endocrine cells that secrete testosterone.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)

Hormone from the hypothalamus that stimulates the release of FSH and LH.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)

Hormone released by the anterior pituitary that controls spermatogenesis.

Luteinizing hormone (LH)

Hormone that stimulates testosterone production from Leydig cells.

Testosterone

The primary male sex hormone involved in spermatogenesis and secondary sex characteristics.

Inhibin

Hormone released by sustentocytes that provides negative feedback on FSH release.

Spermiogenesis

The final stage of spermatogenesis where spermatids mature into sperm.

Spermatids

Immature sperm cells resulting from meiosis II.

Acrosome

Cap-like structure on a sperm that contains enzymes to aid in fertilization.

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

A more potent form of testosterone involved in male characteristics and prostatic function.

Estradiol

A converted form of testosterone that influences brain development.

Hypogonadism

Condition of low testosterone levels that can affect male sexual health.

Secondary sex characteristics

Physical features that develop during puberty under the influence of testosterone.

Prostate

Gland that secretes fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.

Seminal vesicles

Glands that produce fluids that nourish sperm as part of semen.

Bulbospongiosus muscle

Muscle in the perineum involved in ejaculation.

Refractory period

The time after ejaculation in which a male cannot achieve orgasm.

Ejaculate

The fluid that consists of sperm and seminal fluid.

Semen

The fluid comprised of sperm cells and other fluids that aid in reproduction.

Fructose

Sugar in semen that provides energy for sperm.

Prostaglandins

Compounds in semen that help facilitate fertilization.

Volume of semen

Typically 2 to 5 milliliters, containing millions of sperm.

Abolute sperm count

Ranges from 20 million to 150 million sperm per milliliter of semen.

Chromosomes (2N vs. N)

2N represents diploid cells, while N represents haploid cells.

Mitosis

Cell division resulting in two identical daughter cells.

Meiosis

The process of cell division that produces haploid gametes.

Supporting cells (Sustentocytes)

Cells in the seminiferous tubules that assist with spermatogenesis.

Skeletal muscle mass

Muscle tissue that increases due to testosterone during puberty.

Basic metabolic rate

The rate of energy expenditure at rest, influenced by testosterone.

Alkaline nature of semen

Helps to neutralize the acidity of vaginal secretions.

Vas deferens

The duct that transports sperm from the testes.

Internal urethral sphincter

Muscle that constricts during ejaculation.

Somatic spinal reflex

Reflex that is involved in muscle contraction during ejaculation.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter involved in pleasure, released during climax.

Vasodilation

The relaxation of blood vessels, facilitated by parasympathetics during erection.

Vasoconstriction

The constriction of blood vessels, which occurs post-ejaculation.

Male sexual response

The physiological process involving erection, ejaculation, and orgasm.

Adam's apple

Thyroid cartilage enlargement in males due to testosterone.

Oily skin

Skin condition that can result from increased testosterone during puberty.

Bone mineral density

The amount of mineral matter per square centimeter of bones, increased by testosterone.

Spermatogenic cells

Cells involved in the process of spermatogenesis.

Histological section

A thin slice of tissue used for microscopic examination.

Perineum

The area between the anus and the scrotum in males.

Serum testosterone levels

Blood levels of testosterone that fluctuate throughout life.

Cholesterol

The precursor for the synthesis of steroid hormones, including testosterone.

Testosterone-related drugs

Substances used to boost testosterone levels or performance.

Clinical signs of hypogonadism

Indications of low testosterone, such as low libido or reduced muscle mass.

Semen volume significance

The amount of fluid containing sperm, influencing fertility.

Semen composition

The combination of sperm and fluids from male reproductive glands.

Sperm transport process

The journey sperm take from the testes to the female reproductive system.

Genetic material combination

The fusion of sperm and egg genetic materials during fertilization.

Hormonal feedback loops

Regulatory mechanisms involving hormones that maintain balance in reproductive functions.

Age-related testosterone changes

Variances in testosterone levels that occur throughout a male's life.

Effects of testosterone deficiency

Consequences like decreased libido and impaired reproductive health.

Essential sperm functions

Actions necessary for successful fertilization and reproduction.

Testosterone's anabolic effects

The substance's ability to promote muscle and bone growth.

Therapeutic testosterone use

The application of testosterone treatment in medical settings.

Endocrine system regulation

The role of hormones in controlling reproductive processes.

Leydig cell significance

Importance of these cells in testosterone production.

Explaining spermatogenesis

Understanding the overall process and stages involved in sperm creation.

Semen role in reproduction

The function of semen in fertilization and conception.

Regulatory hormones in reproduction

Key hormones that control reproductive functions and cycles.

Hormonal interaction in spermatogenesis

The cooperative function of hormones like FSH and LH in sperm development.