Male Reproductive System

What is the epididymis?

Coiled tube on top of each testicle, measures 20 ft long. Receives and stores maturing sperm for 18 hours.

What is the prostate gland?

Donut shaped gland surrounding urethra. Secretes milky alkaline fluid which maintains the motility of the sperm. The fluid helps to neutralize the acidity of the vagina.

What is cryptorchidism?

Failure of testes to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum. This is problematic because Internal body temperature (98.6) is too hot for sperm to survive, normally sperm survive at temperatures cooler than body temperature (96.9)

What is spermatogenesis?

1. Spermatogonia: Immature sperm cell that contains 46 chromosomes (23 mom, 23 dad) remains dormant until puberty. 2. Primary spermatocytes: Sperm cell begins to divide after puberty forming an identical daughter cell in Mitosis containing 46 chromosomes. 3. Secondary spermatocytes: The daughter cell further divides in Meiosis I into 2 (23 chromosome) cells. 4. Sperm production: The two daughter cells divide in Meiosis II into four spermatids with 23 chromosomes each. 5. Spermatatogenesis: Four mature sperm cells are produced.

What is the penis?

A male reproductive organ composed of two spongy erectile tissue. It contains a cone shaped structure on top called the glans penis. A piece of skin that covers the glans penis is called the prepuce only present in uncircumcised males.

What is the vas deferens?

A muscular tube (18' long) which serves as a passageway for sperm and fluid from the epididymis. Vasectomy: Occurs when tub is cut or tied in order to prevent release of sperm and fluid.

What is the scrotum?

A pouch of skin that secretes a serous fluid to ensure the testes move freely within it.

What is the cowper's gland (bulbourethral)?

A small gland which produces an alkaline mucus like fluid that lubricates the end of the penis in preparation of sexual intercourse.

What is the seminal vesicle?

A tube that secretes alkaline fluid rich in prostaglandins (used to propel sperm into female reproductive system) and fructose (energy for the sperm to travel).

What are the testes?

Male reproductive glands that produce sperm and secretes testosterone. Develop at a body temperature slightly lower than normal body temperature. Contained inside an external sac called the scrotum.

What is the structure of sperm cells?

The Head: Holds a nucleus with 23 chromosomes. Contains an enzyme called acrosome which helps sperm penetrate the egg at the time of fertilization. The Midpiece: Contains mitochondria which generates the energy needed for the cell to move. The Tail: Contains flagella which propels the sperm forward into the female reproductive tract.