BIO163 Exam 5 Study Guide

These flashcards cover key concepts related to reproductive biology, gametogenesis, hormonal functions, and genetic inheritance.

Primary sex organs

Gonads, which are the testes in males and ovaries in females.

Gametogenesis

The process of producing gametes, including sperm and ova.

Optimal sperm production temperature

Approximately 34 degrees Celsius, which is 3°C lower than normal body temperature.

Dartos muscle

Smooth muscle that wrinkles scrotal skin and pulls the scrotum closer to the body.

Cremaster muscles

Skeletal muscle bands that elevate the testes.

Interstitial cells

Cells in the testes that secrete testosterone, stimulated by luteinizing hormone.

Sustentacular cells

Testicular cells that secrete androgen-binding protein and inhibin, triggered by follicle-stimulating hormone.

Copulatory organ of males

Penis.

Copulatory organ of females

Vagina.

Seminiferous tubules

Structures in the testes where sperm is produced.

Accessory structures of male reproductive system

Include epididymis, ductus deferens, ejaculatory duct, and urethra.

Game Formation Type

Meiosis is required for gamete formation.

Spermatogenesis

The production of sperm within the seminiferous tubules.

Spermiogenesis

The final stage of spermatogenesis where spermatids mature into sperm.

Blood-testis barrier

A barrier that prevents sperm antigens from entering the blood and activating the immune system.

Male secondary sex characteristics

Features induced in non-reproductive organs by male sex hormones, mainly testosterone.

Female secondary sex characteristics

Features such as breast growth and increased subcutaneous fat occurring at puberty.

Oocytes

Immature eggs surrounded by follicle cells or granulosa cells.

Uterine tube

Structure connecting each ovary to the uterus.

Ectopic pregnancy

Implantation of a fertilized egg outside of the uterus, such as in the fallopian tube.

Corpus luteum

Developed from the ruptured follicle after ovulation; secretes estrogen and progesterone.

Phases of the ovarian cycle

Follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase.

Menstrual phase

The phase during which the endometrial stratum functionalis is shed.

Menopause

The period when menstruation ceases completely for an entire year.

SRY gene

The gene responsible for turning undifferentiated gonads into testes.

Neurulation

The formation of the neural tube from the ectoderm, leading to brain and spinal cord development.

Oogenesis

The process of egg (ovum) formation.

Folic acid

A vitamin that reduces the risk of fetal neurological problems during pregnancy.

Teratogens

Agents that can cause congenital abnormalities if harmful substances cross the placental barrier.

Oxytocin

A hormone that stimulates uterine contractions during labor.

In vitro fertilization (IVF)

A process where oocytes and sperm are fused in a lab and the resulting embryos are transferred to the uterus.

Codominance

A genetic situation where both alleles in a heterozygote are fully expressed.

Polygenic inheritance

A trait controlled by multiple genes, such as skin color or height.

Carrier recognition

Methods like pedigrees and blood tests used to determine genetic carrier status.