male reproductive system

seminiferous tubules

site of sperm production

sertoli cells

protect developing sperm, assist in their maturation and produce inhibin

leydig cells

interstitial cells, produce testosterone as a result of GnRH

epididymis

connects testes to vas deferens, accommodates sperm, is where they complete maturation

vas deferens

long, smooth muscular tube that runs from epididymis into pelvic cavity behind bladder which connects urethra to ejaculatory duct

scrotum

sac that accommodates testes outside of abdominal cavity

prostate

single gland at bottom of bladder surrounding the proximal end of urethra

seminal glands

2 glands sitting behind bladder at proximal end of urethra, provides bulk of fluid for semen (contains prostaglandins, fructose and ascorbic acid)

ejaculatory duct

when seminal vesicle ducts joins the vas deferens and enters proximal part of urethra

bulbourethral glands

2 small glands situated inferior to prostate gland which produce small amount of alkaline fluid that lubricates and neutralises traces of acidic urine in urethra

penis

made of root, shaft and glans - ensures delivery of semen into female and voiding of urine

acrosome

tip of sperm containing enzymes to ensure sperm can release DNA into egg

head

contains DNA that will enter ovum during fertilisation

mid-piece

contains numerous mitochondria which are essential when providing ATP for motility

flagellum

propels sperm in female reproductive tract

gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH)

stimulates LH and FSH secretions of anterior pituitary gland

inhibin

inhibits GnRH and FSH secretions and so does testosterone (negative feedback loop)

testosterone

hormone essential and responsible for development of male genitalia and spermatogenesis, as well as secondary male characteristics