Spermatogenesis and Male Reproductive Anatomy

These flashcards cover key concepts related to spermatogenesis and the anatomy of the male reproductive system.

Spermatogenesis

The process of production of sperm.

Mitosis

The process that begins in puberty, involved in the division of germ cells.

Meiosis

The process of dividing stem cells to produce sperm cells.

Acrosome

A structure at the head of the sperm filled with digestive enzymes to penetrate the egg.

Head of sperm

The part of the sperm that contains the nucleus with 23 chromosomes.

Tail of sperm

The posterior part of the sperm, which includes the principal piece and is responsible for movement.

Testosterone

A hormone produced by Leydig cells in the testes, responsible for male secondary sexual characteristics.

Leydig cells

Cells in the testes that produce testosterone.

Sertoli cells

Cells that nourish and develop sperm, and inhibit FSH production.

Ejaculation

The process by which sperm moves into the ductus deferens and then out of the male body.

Seminiferous tubules

The site in the testes where sperm is produced.

Ductus Epididymis

The structure where sperm stays until ejaculation.

Urethra

The duct through which sperm is expelled from the male body.