NPB 101: Reproductive Physiology Overview

Reproductive system & homeostasis

- Controlled through the hormones of the endocrine system

- homeostatic for species, not individual

- usually positive FB seen

- reproductive processes may impact glucose levels and cardiovascular aspects

reproductive patterns

- can be internal (in body) or external (outside of body like egg) fertilization

OVIPAROUS - egg laying (invertebrates and some vertebrates); fertilization can be external or internal

VIVAPAROUS - development of oviduct/ uterus, nourished by mother (mammal, fishes, scropions, etc)

Anisogamy

Refers to a difference in gamete size in males and females. Eggs large and costly, sperm small and cheap

Role of male reproductive system

1. Sperm production

2. Deliver sperm to female to fertilize egg

Sperm pathway

"SEVEN UP"

Seminiferous tubules

Epididymis

Vas deferens

Ejaculatory duct

(Nothing)

Urethra

Penis

Male differentiation

Sex Determining Region of Y called SRY gene aid in development of testes

• Don't need whole Y chromosome, SRY gene is enough for gonads to go in male direction to become testes

• Hormones start to play role as Leydig cells in testes produce testosterone

Female reproductive functions

• production of eggs (ova from oogenesis)

• Reception of sperm

• Transport of sperm and ovum to common site for union (fertilization)

• The maintenance of the developing fetus until it can survive in the outside world (gestation or pregnancy). Usage/Formation of placenta for nourishment

• Birth of a baby

• Nourishment after birth by location

Development of ovaries

develop from gonad if no sry gene is present