Case Study 7 – Objectives

These flashcards cover key concepts and questions from the lecture notes on the reproductive cycle, hormonal regulation, and genetic mutations.

How does temperature vary throughout a 28-day cycle before and after ovulation?

Body temperature typically rises after ovulation.

What days represent peak fertility in a 28-day cycle?

The days just before and the day of ovulation represent peak fertility.

Which days represent low fertility during the menstrual cycle?

The days following ovulation, particularly in the luteal phase, represent low fertility.

Why is 28 days considered the average length of a woman's cycle?

It is an average that applies to certain individuals, as cycle lengths can vary.

Which phase of the menstrual cycle is more consistent between each cycle?

The luteal phase is more consistent between cycles.

What causes the hypothalamus to secrete more GnRH?

Increased estrogen levels from developing follicles trigger more GnRH secretion.

Which hormones stimulate the maturation of follicles in the ovarian cycle?

FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) stimulates follicles to mature.

What hormones are secreted by a maturing follicle?

Estrogen is primarily secreted by a maturing follicle.

Which hormone triggers ovulation?

LH (luteinizing hormone) triggers ovulation.

Where does the corpus luteum come from and what hormones does it secrete?

The corpus luteum forms from the ruptured follicle and secretes progesterone and estrogen.

What is hCG and how does it prevent shedding of the endometrium?

hCG is human chorionic gonadotropin, secreted by the placenta; it prevents shedding by signaling the corpus luteum to continue hormone production.

Which hormone causes the thickening of the uterine lining (endometrium)?

Estrogen causes the thickening of the uterine lining.

Where does estrogen come from?

Estrogen is produced by the ovaries.

What triggers the endometrium to be shed (menses)?

A decrease in progesterone levels triggers the shedding of the endometrium.

What is the negative feedback system involving the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries?

The system regulates hormone levels through feedback, where increased hormone levels inhibit further secretion of GnRH, FSH, and LH.

On what day would ovulation occur for an individual with a 24-day cycle?

Ovulation would occur around day 10 of a 24-day cycle.

On what day would ovulation occur for an individual with a 28-day cycle?

Ovulation occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle.

On what day would ovulation occur for an individual with a 30-day cycle?

Ovulation occurs around day 16 of a 30-day cycle.

How do birth control pills work?

They prevent ovulation and regulate menstrual cycles by supplying hormones.

What hormones are contained in birth control pills?

They commonly contain estrogen and progestin.

How can mutations in DNA affect the final protein product?

Mutations can alter the amino acid sequence and function of the protein.

What is the impact of alternative splicing on a final protein product?

It can produce different protein isoforms from the same gene, affecting functionality.

How do hormones regulate gene expression through alternative splicing?

Hormones can influence splicing factors that modify mRNA processing pathways.