Introduction to Reproductive Biology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the reproductive biology and developmental processes discussed in the lecture.

Semoplasmin

An antibiotic produced in the prostate gland, protecting against bacteria and pathogens.

PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen)

A substance produced by the prostate that can be measured to assess prostate health.

Digital Rectal Exam

A medical examination of the rectum, often used to check the prostate in men.

Circumcision

The surgical removal of the foreskin from the penis.

Capacitation

The process sperm undergo to gain the ability to fertilize an egg.

Zygote

The fertilized egg that develops from the fusion of sperm and egg cells.

Blastomere

A cell formed by the cleavages of a zygote.

Morula

A solid ball of cells resulting from the division of a zygote, occurring around the 16-cell stage.

Blastocyst

The stage of early development in mammals that consists of a hollow ball of cells.

Trophoblast

The outer layer of cells of the blastocyst that will develop into the placenta.

Cleavage Division

The series of rapid cell divisions without growth that occurs in early embryo development.

Inner Cell Mass

A cluster of cells within the blastocyst that will eventually develop into the embryo.

Chorionic villus sampling

A medical procedure used to obtain a sample of placental tissue for genetic analysis.

Placenta

An organ that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall to allow nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gas exchange.

Polyspermy

A condition where more than one sperm fertilizes an egg, which can lead to developmental issues.