19 TSH _ Human Reproductive System: Male Reproductive System

Vocabulary flashcards derived from the lecture notes on the male reproductive system.

Asexual reproduction

single parent gives rise to offspring that are

genetically identical to the parent (with the exception of spontaneous

mutations).

Parthenogenesis

A form of asexual reproduction, in which an unfertilised

egg develops into an adult animal. The adult is typically haploid

Reproduction

Spermatogenesis

The specialized form of meiotic division which leads to the development of mature spermatozoa in males.

Gonads

The primary reproductive organs: testis in males that produce sperm, and ovary in females that produce ova.

Parthenogenesis

A form of asexual reproduction in which an unfertilized egg develops into an adult.

Hormonal control of spermatogenesis

Regulated by Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland and testosterone from Leydig cells.

Seminiferous tubules

Highly coiled tubes within the testes that produce spermatozoa and are surrounded by a fibrous capsule.

Leydig cells

Cells in the testes that secrete testosterone, responsible for maintaining male secondary sexual characteristics.

Sertoli cells

Supportive nurse cells in the seminiferous tubules that help in the development of spermatozoa.

Acrosome

A cap-like structure that develops over the head of spermatozoa and contains enzymes to help penetrate the egg.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, leading to the production of haploid gametes.

Epididymis

A coiled tube where sperm mature and are stored after being produced in the testes.