L2: Macroscopic Structure

what is important to note about the shape?

-varies with spp

what is the general shape of testis in companion animals?

-round

what is the general shape in bull or rams?

-elongated

what are the two main parts of the internal testis structure?

-parenchyma: cellular tissue

-mediastinum: connective tissue

general structures within parenchyma?

-lobules

where is the rete testes?

-mediastinum

where are the seminiferous tubule lobules?

-within lobules of parenchyma

what is connected to the seminiferous tubule lobules?

-rete testis in mediastinum

what tissue layer gives rise to the lobules?

-tunica albuginea

fx:

tunica albuginea (mediastinum)

-prevent collapse of rete testis tubules

summary:

PVT, VVT, TA

-parietal vaginal tunic is very obvious

-close association between visceral vaginal tunic and tunica albuginea

-have to peel them away to separate

what is anatomical difference between PVT and VVT?

P: much looser attachment, thicker

V: very close proximity with the tunics

similarities:

PVT & VVT

-both sensitive to hormones and neurotransmitters

what makes up the testicular capsule?

-VVT and TA

fx:

smooth m

-in tunica albuginea to facilitate movt of sperm from parancyhma to rete testes

what is the general movement of sperm? 

produced in seminiferous tubules (spermatogenesis) → flow towards mediastinum testis → tubuli recti → rete testis → efferent ductules → epididymis → vas deferens → sm m contractions thru urethra (ejaculation)

where does sperm mature?

-epididymis

where do sperm gain motility? 

-epididymis

-develop flagella

-modify membrane proteins and lipids

-ability to recognize and fertilize an oocyte

-nuclear condensation and cytoplasmic droplet loss