Male Reproductive System

Flashcards on the male reproductive system, covering components, functions, and embryological development.

What are the two primary functions of the testes?

Testes produce sperm and androgens (primarily testosterone).

What is the role of the penis in fertilization?

The penis facilitates fertilization by delivering semen into the female reproductive tract.

Which primary germ layer gives rise to the gonads?

The mesoderm.

What paired structures form from the mesoderm around the 5th week of development, eventually forming the testes?

Genital/Gonadal ridges.

Through which canal do the testes descend to reach the scrotum?

The inguinal canal.

What structure guides the descent of the testes and what does it become in men?

The gubernaculum, which in men forms the scrotal ligament tethering the testes to the scrotum.

Why are the testes located outside the trunk of the body in the scrotum?

To provide a cooler environment necessary for normal sperm production.

What structures are carried within the spermatic cord?

The ductus deferens, blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels.

Which two muscles help regulate the temperature of the testes?

The cremaster and dartos muscles.

How does the cremaster muscle respond to changes in temperature?

Contraction brings the testes closer to the body to conserve heat, while relaxation moves them away to cool down.

How does the dartos muscle respond to changes in temperature?

Wrinkling of the scrotal skin reduces heat loss, while unwrinkling increases heat loss.

What are the two layers of tissue covering the testes?

Tunica vaginalis and tunica albuginea.

Within the testes, where is sperm produced?

Seminiferous tubules.

What is the function of the cells located in the spaces between the seminiferous tubules?

Produce androgens, most commonly testosterone.

What is the pathway sperm takes through the duct system, from the testes to ejaculation?

Epididymis -> Ductus Deferens -> Ejaculatory Duct -> Prostatic Urethra.

Which two structures unite to form the ejaculatory duct?

The ampulla of ductus deferens and duct of seminal vesicles.

What is the function of the epididymis?

Sperm storage and maturation.

What are the accessory glands of the male reproductive system?

Seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands.

What are the two major functions of the secretions within seminal fluid?

Nourishment for sperm and neutralization of vaginal acidity.

What substances are secreted from the seminal vesicles that are important for sperm function?

Fructose and prostaglandins.

What substances are secreted by the prostate gland, and what are their functions?

Citric acid, antibacterial agent, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA).

What is the function of the fluid secreted by the bulbourethral glands?

To lubricate the urethra prior to ejaculation.

What are the three cylindrical masses of erectile tissue that make up the body of the penis?

Corpus spongiosum and corpora cavernosa.

What structures compose the root of the penis?

The bulb of the penis and the crura of the penis.

What forms the glans of the penis?

The distal expansion of the corpus spongiosum.

What is the name of the circular fold of skin covering the glans?

Prepuce (foreskin).