Human Development and Gametogenesis

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to human development and gametogenesis.

Gametogenesis

The process by which gametes (sperm and eggs) are produced by meiosis and cellular differentiation.

Oocyte

A female germ cell involved in reproduction; the precursor to an egg.

Spermatogenesis

The process of sperm cell development, including differentiation and maturation within the testes.

Menstrual cycle

The monthly cycle in women which prepares the body for pregnancy, including phases of follicular development, ovulation, and menstruation.

Implantation

The process by which a fertilized egg embeds itself into the uterine wall.

Neurulation

The process during embryonic development whereby the neural tube forms, giving rise to the central nervous system.

Organogenesis

The formation of organs during embryonic development.

Embryogenesis

The early developmental phase when the embryo undergoes formation and differentiation.

Follicle

A spherical structure in the ovary that contains an oocyte, which also houses follicle cells that provide support.

Acrosome

A cap-like structure on the head of a sperm cell that contains enzymes vital for penetrating the egg.

Epididymis

A coiled tube where sperm mature and are stored, located behind the testes.

Cytotrophoblast

The inner layer of the trophoblast that contributes to the formation of the placenta.

Lacunae

Spaces that form in the syncytiotrophoblast, helping maternal blood reach the developing embryo.

Nondisjunction

An error in cell division that results in gametes with an abnormal number of chromosomes, often leading to conditions like Down syndrome.

Primordial germ cells

The early cells that migrate to form gametes in developing embryos.

Chorion

The outermost fetal membrane that contributes to the placenta.

Endometrium

The inner lining of the uterus, where the embryo implants and develops.

Prophase I

A stage in meiosis where homologous chromosomes pair and exchange segments, but the process halts until puberty in females.

Corpus luteum

The hormone-secreting structure that forms from an ovarian follicle after ovulation.

Polar body

A small cell that is a byproduct of oocyte division; it eventually degenerates and does not participate in fertilization.