HUMAN

REPRODUCTION

BASIC
3
CONCEPTS

1. The Human Male Reproductive System

The male reproductive system consists of the following:
Pun1atv se organ: testes.
) Sccondary or accessory sex organs
(a) Accessory ducts: rete lestis, vasa cflerentja, epididymis and vas deferens
(6) Accessory glands: seminal vesicle, prostate and bulbourethral glands (Cowper's glandl)
m Extertal genitala penis.
(i) Testes
Apair of testes is situated outside the abdoninal cavity in a sac of skin called the rotu,Scrotum
keeps the testes at a temperature 2-2.5°C lower than the internal body temperature, which is
necessary for the synthesis of sperms.
Each testis is oval in shape, measures about 4-5 cm in length and is 2-3 cn in wid1h
The outermostcovering of the testis is formed by adense fibrouS Dembrane called unea allugnea,
Each testis is divided into 250 conpartments called testiusr obules.

Urinary
bladder

Publc bone Seminal

vesicle
Vas deferens Rectum

Elaculatory Prostale gland

duct Bulbourethval
Penis
gland
Anus
Urethra
Epididynis
Glans Penis
Foreskin
Scrotum
Testis

Fig.3.1 Dlagrammatle sectonal view of male pevis showing reproductive system

Human Reproduction 73
 Eachlobule contains 1-3 highly coiledtubules known as seminilerous tubulesin which sperms a.
produced.
Ureter Urinary
bladder

Vas deferens Seminal vesicle

Prostate gland
Bulbourethral
giand
Urethra
Vasa efferentia
Epididymis

Rete testis Testis

Foreskin
Testicular lobules Glans penis

Fig. 3.2 Diagrammatic view of male reproductive system

(part of testis is open to show inner details)
Each seminiferous tubule is lined on its inside, by two highly specialised cells called male germ celk
(spermatogonia) and Sertoli celis,
Spermatogonia undergo meiotic cell division to produce sperms.
Sertoli cells or nurse cells provide nutrition to the germ cells.
The regions outside the seminiferous tubules contain masses of cells called interstitialcells or Levdip
cells, Leydig cells synthesise and secrete the male hormones called androgens (testosterone) which
maintain male sex characteristics.

(i) Accessory Duct Systenm

The seminiferous tubules open into the vasa efferentja through rete testis.
Several vasa efferentia open into the epididymis and carry sperms outside the testes.
Epididymis is a long, coiled tube present along the posterior surface of each testis. It continues
as the vas deferens that ascends intothe abdomen to loop over the urinary bladder. Epididymis
temporarily stores non-motile and immature sperms.

Leydig cells/Interstitial cells

Spermatogonia
Spermatozoa

Sertolicells

Fig. 3.3 Diagrammatic sectional view of seminiferous tubule

Theduct from seminal vesicle and vas deferens together form the cjaculatoryluct, They P
through the prostate gland and join the urethra. They carry secretions of seminal vesicle a
sperms from the testes to the outside through urethra.
 Urethra originates fromthe urinary bladder and extends through the penis to its exteral
called urethral meatus. It caries urine from the bladder and sperms fron1 the vas leferens openng
through
the pens.
(iii)Accessory Glands
Secretions of these glands constitute seminal plasma which is rich in frutose, alium and ertam
enzvmes.

The accessory oT secOndary glands incude a prostate gland. (wo

seminal vesles and two
bulbourethral glands.
Prostate gland: It surrounds the urethraand producCsamilkv seretioll which formsa
part of he semen. This seTeiON contans ciric acid, lipids and enzymes. Seoetion considerable
oland nourishes and activates the spermatozoa to swim. of the prostate
Seminal sesicles: These seTete mucus and a watery alkaline luid that contains
fructose which
provides energy to the sperms.
Bulbourethral glands or Cowper's glands are attached to the urethra below the prostate
They secrete mucus fluid for the lubrication of the penis. gland.
(iv) External Genitalia
Penis: It is the malecopulatory organ having erectile tissues and vascular
sexually excited these spaces fill with blood, causing the penis to erect. Thespaces. When the tnale IS
called glans penis. The glarns penis is covered with asmooth skin called distal end of the penis is
foreskin or prepuce.
2. The Female Reproductive System
The female reproductive system consists of the following:
(i) Primary sex organ: ovary
(ii) Secondary sex organs:
(a) Accessory ducts: pair of oviducts (fallopian tubes), uterus, cervix and
vagina.
(6) Accessory gland: manmmary gland.
ii) External genitalia: vulva.

Uterus
Urinary Bladder

Pubic symphysis Cervix

Urethra
Rectum
Clitoris Vagina
Labium minora Anus
Labium majora
Vaginal orifice

Fig. 3,4 Diagrammatic sectional view of female pelvis showing reproductive system
() Ovaries
varies are the primary female sex organs that produce the female gametes (ovum) and several
Sterod hormones (ovarian hormones).
Nares are located oneon cach side of the lower abdomen and remain atached to the pelvic wal!
and uterus by ovarian ligaments.
 Each ovary is almond-ike flattened body, measuing about 24 (m in length.
The outer regionof the ovary is compoxed of developing follles and the middle region form th.
stroma which contains connective tissuc, blood vessels and mature follicles.
B Ihe sroma is divided into two regions: a peripheral ortex and an inner medslla.
Uterine cavity Uterine fundus

Isthrnus

Ampulla Fallopian
tube

Infundibulum

Endometrium Firmbriae
Cervix
Myometrium Ovary
Cervical canal
Perimetrium

Vagina

Fig. 3.5 Diagrammatic sectional view of the female reproductive system

(a) Oviducts (Fallopian tubes)
These are two small tubes,about 10-12cmin length, lying on either sides of uterus near the kidne:
The opening of the fallopian tube is expanded into funnel-shaped infundibulum. The end
of infundibulum has finger-like projections called fimbriae, They move closeY to the ovaries a
ovulation to collect the ovum after ovulation.
The infundibulum leads to awider part of the oviduct called ampulla.
Isthmus is the last part of the oviduct having a narrow lumen which joins the uterus.
(b) Uterus (Womb)
It is a single, hollow, muscular, pear-shapd structure supported by ligaments and attached to the
pelvic walI.
It is present between the urinary bladder and the rectum.
The lower part of the uterus is very narrow and is called cerviy. The cavity of the cervix is cale
cervicalcanal, which forms the birth canal along with vagina.
The wall of the uterus has three layers of tissue:
" Perimnetrium: outer, thin membranous covering of the uterus wall.
Myometrium: middle, thick layer of smooth muscle fibres which contracts strongly duris
delivery of the baby.
Endometrium: inner layer, that contains glands and many blood vessels. It undergoes cy
changes during the menstrual cycle.
(ii) Mammary Glands
Human female has a pair of mammary glands (breasts) that contain glandular tissues andfatty issue
ol
Each glandular tissue is divided into 15-20 mammary lobes and each lobe consists of a gro
cells called alveoli.
The alveoli open into mammary tubules,
 he mammary tubules of each lobe open into small mammary duct.
Several mammary ducts join to form a wider mammary ampulla that is connected to lactiferous
duct just before the nipple through which milk is released.
Fat

Mammary lobe
Mammary alveolus
Rib
Mammary duct
Ampulla
Muscles
Lactiferous duct between ribs

Nipple

Areola

Pectoralis
major muscle

Fig. 3.6 Adiagrammatic sectional view of mammary gland

(iü) External Genitalia (Vulva)

The external genitalia of females are collectively called vulva and consists of the following parts:
(a) Mons pubis: Acushion of fatty tissue covered with skin and pubic h¡ir.
(b) Labia majora: Two fleshy folds of fatty tissues which extend down from the mons pubis and
surround the vaginal opening. Just inside the labia majora are the labia minora which enclose
the vestibule containing the tiny opening of the urethra and the large mouth of the vagina.
(c) Clitoris: Atiny finger-like structure, which lies at the upper junction of the two labia minora,
above the urethral opening
(d) Hymen: Athin mucous membrane that covers the vaginal opening either partly or entirely.
The hymen often breaks during the first intercourse or duringsports like horse riding, cycling
or sudden fall or jolt, etc. Hence, presence or absence of hymen is not a reliable indicator of
virginity or sexual experience.
3. Gametogenesis
It is the process of gamete formationinthe gonads (testis and ovary) in sexually reproducing animals.
The two processes of gametogenesis are:
() Spermatogenesis: Formation of haploid spermatozoa (sperms) from diploid spermatogonia in
males.
(ii) Oogenesis: Formation of haploid ovum from the diploid germ cells in the ovary in females.
) Spermatogenesis
is called
The process of formation of spermatozoa (sperms) from diploid spermatogonta
spermatogenesis.

Reproduction 77
 A puberty CHROMOSOME
" I includes the following phases: NUMBER
Spermatogonia
() Multiplication phase: The male germ PER CELL
Mitosis
46
cells (spenatogonia) present on the differen
inside wall of sCminiferous ubules tiation

multiply bv mitoticdivision and inrease

in numbers.
(h) Growth phase: Spermatogoma gow
and incrcase in size and form primary Primary spermatocytes
spermatocytes. Each spermatogonium is
1st meiotic
diploid andcontains 46 chromosomes. division
) Maturation phase or lomation ol
spermatids: Some of the spermatogonia
called primary spermatocytes periodically
undergomeiosis. Aprimary spermatOcyte Secondary spermatocytes
completes the first meiotic division 23
2nd meiotic
(redution division) leading to division
formation of two equal haploid cells Spermatids
called secondary spermatocytes, which
have only 23 chromosomes each. The Differentiation 23

secondary spermatocytes undergo the Spermatozoa

second meiotic division to produce four
equal haploid spermatids. Fig. 3.7 Schematic representation of spermatogensis
(d) Differentiation phase: The spermatids
are transformed into spermatozoa (sperms) by the process of spermiogenesis. After
spermiogenesis, the sperm's head gets attached to Sertoli cells to draw nourishment and are
finally released from the seminiferous tubules by the process called spermiation.

Spermatozoa

Secondary
spermatocyte
Spermatids
Primary
spermatocyte
Sertoli cell

Spermatogonium

Fig. 3.8 Diagrammatic sectional view of a seminiferous tubule (enlarged)

Hormonal control of spermatogenesis
Spermatogenesis is initiated at the age of puberty by the gonadotropin releasing hormone
secreted by the hypothalamus. (follice
The increased levels of GnRH stimulate the anterior pituitary which then secretes the FSH Some

stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinising hormone). FSH stimulates Sertoli cells to secrete
factors which help in spermiogenesis.
 Hacts on the Leydig cells and causes the
hich in turn stimulate he process of secretion of androgens. i.e., testosterone from the testes
spermatogenesis.
Inhibits
GnRH
and
HYPoTHALAMUS<
GnRH
LH
Production, ANTERIOR PITUTARY
LH FSH
TESTES
LEYDIG SERTOLI
CELLS CELLS

TESTOSTERONE
STIMULATES
SPERMIOGENESIS
TESTOSTERONE
INHIBIN
REPRODUCTIVE TRACT
STIMULATES
SPERMATOGENESIS
Fig. 3.9 Flow chart showing the hormonal control of the human male reproductive system
Structure of a sperm (Spermatozoa) Acrosome

lt consists of four parts--head, neck, middle

piece and tail-enveloped by a plasma Nucleus containing
chromosomal material
membrane. Head

E Head: It is the enlarged end of a sperm,

containing the large haploid nucleus, i.e.,
condensed chromatin body and is capped by
acrosome. The acrosome contains hydrolytic Neck
enzymes that help in dissolving membranes of
the ovum for fertilisation. Middle piece
Neck: It contains proximal centriole which Mitochondria
is necessary for the first cleavage division of (energy source for swimming)
zygote and the distalcentriole that is connected
to the tailfilament.
Middle piece: It contains a number of
mitochondria that provide energy for the
movement of the tail that facilitate sperm
motility, essential for fertilisation.
Tail: It consists of axial filaments surrounded
by the plasma membrane. It helps the sperms
to swim in afluid medium.
Ahuman male ejaculates about 200-300
million sperms during a coitus. Seminal Tail
plasma along with the sperms constitute the
semen. Fig. 3.10 Structure of a sperm
40% of them
ror normal fertility, at least 60% sperms must have normal shape and size and at least
MUST show vigorous motility.
(0) Oogenesis
Ihe process of formation of amature female gamete is called oogenesis. It occurs in theovares.
It consists of the following three phases:
ta) Multiplication phase: Oogenesis is initiated during the embryonic development stage when
gamete mother cells (oogonia) are formed within each foetal
ovar. No
a couple of milion
 CHROMOSOME
more 0ogona are formed NUMBER
and added after birth. These PER CELL Oogonia
46
cells start division and enter
into prophase-I of the meiotic Mitosis
differentiation
division. They get temporarily Fetal life
arrested at this stage and are
called primary o0cytes. Primary oocyte
thy Growth plase Each primary 1st meiotic division
00cyte then gets surrounded by (completed prior
a layer of granulosa cells. This Birth to ovulation)
Childhood
structure is called the primary
follicle. A large number of these Puberty
23
follicdes degenerate during the
phase from birth to puberty. At First
polar body )Secondary oocyte
puberty, only 60,000 to 80,000 23 Adult
primary follicles are left in each reproductive
life Ovum
ovary. The primary follicles get
surrounded by more layers of Second
granulosa cells and a new theca polar body
to form secondary follicles.
(c) Maturation phase: In the first Fig. 3.11 Systematic representation of oogenesis
maturation phase, the secondary follicle soon transforms into a tertiary follicle. The primar
o0cyte within the tertiary follicle grows in size and completes its first meiotic division to form a
large, haploid, secondary oocyte and a tiny first polar body. The tertiary follicle changes into a
mature folliclethe Graafian folliclewhich ruptures to release the secondary oocyte (ovum
from the ovary by aprocess called ovulation. The second maturation phase occurs after
fertilisation when the meiotic division of the secondary oocyte is complete. This second meiouC
division results inthe formation of asecond polar body and a haploid ovum (0otid).
Tertiary follicle
Primary showing antrum
follicle -Blood
vessels

Surface
epithelium

Graafian follicle

Corpus luteum Ovum

Fig. 3.12 Sectional view of ovary

" Oogenesis is completed when the sperm penetrates the ovum.

4. Menstrual Cycle
The rhythmic series of changes that occur in the reproductive organs of female primates (monkey
apes and human beings) iscalled menstrual cycle.
Itis repeated at an average interval of about28/29 days.
The first appearance of menstruation at puberty is called menarche.
The menstrual cycle has four phases. These are:
(i) Menstrual Phase
The menstrual flow results due to breakdown of endometrial lining of
vessels, that are discharged through vagina. uterus and its blood
The unfertilised egg and sofi tissues are discharged.
I lasts for 3-5 davs. I OCcUTs onlv if released ovum is not
leveis fertilized.
Pitu any horm ne
FSH
LH

ev nts
Ovarin Developing folicle Mature follicle Developing
corpus luteum
Regressing
corpus lutaum

lheovrmeolnse Ovulaion
Ovari n Estrogen
Progesterone

Uetvreinets Menses

Days 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 27 29/1
Menstruation Follicular phase Luteal phase Next cycle
(Proliferative phase) (Secretory phase) begins
Fig. 3.13 Diagrammatic presentation of various events during a menstrual cycle

() Follicular Phase/Proliferative Phase

" The primary follicles in the ovary grow and become a fully matureGraafian follicle.
The endometrium of the uterus is regenerated due to the secretion of LH and FSH from anterior
pituitary and ovarian hormone, estrogen.
" It lasts for about 10 to l14 days.
(ii) Ovulatory Phase
Rapid secretion of LH leading to its maximum level during mid cycle called LH surge, induces
rupture of Graafian follicde, thereby leading to ovulation (release of ovum).
It lasts for only about 48 hours.
(iv) Luteal Phase/Secretory Phase
" In this phase the ruptured follicle changes into corpus luteum in the ovary and it begins to
SeCrete the hormone progesterOne which is essential foT maintenance of endometrium.
O The endometrium thickens further and their glands seCrete a fluid into the
uterus.
fovum is not fertilised, the corpus luteum undergoes degeneration and this causes disintegration
of the endomerium leading to menstruation.
Estrogen and progesterone levels rise during this phase.
" It lasts for only 10-14
days.
During pregnancy all events of the menstrual cycle stop and there is no menstruation. The menstrual
yee permanently stops in females at the age of around 50 years. This is called menopause.
5. Fertilisation
The process of fusion of a sperm (male gamete)
with an ovum (female gamete) is called fertilisation.
During coitus, semen is released by the penis Sperm
into the vagina (insemination).
The motile sperms swim rapidly through the
cervix, enter into the uterus and reach the
ampullary-isthmic junction of the oviduct. 7.P
Asperm comes in contact with the zona pellucida
laver of the ovum and induces changes in the
membrane to block tlhe entry of additional Zona
Ovum
Cells of the
Sperms. pellucida COrona raia,
The enzvmes of the acrosome of sperm help to Plasma
dissolve zona pellucida and plasma membrane mernbran
of the ovum and sperm head is allowed to enter
into the cytoplasm of the ovum. This includes Fu
Perivitelline space
competition of meiosis II to form secondary
O0cyte and II polar body. Fig. 3.I4 Ovum surrounded by few sperms
Ultimately diploid zygote is produced by the fusion of a sperm and an ovum.
6. Implantation
Zygote divides rapidly by mitotic division as it moves through isthmusof oviduct towards uterus. Th
is called [Link] a result 2, 4, 8,16daughter cells are produced which aretermed as blastomers
Embryo with 8-16 blastomeres is called a morula.
The morula continues to divide and transforms into a large mass of cells called blastocyst, whict
passes further into the uterus.
Blastomeres in the blastocyst are arranged into an outer layer called trophoblast and an inne
group of cells attached to trophoblast called inner cell mass.
Nucleus
(Morula) pailo
Trophoblast (E)

stage
Innerellmass
Blastoc el Ce/
)

Blastomeres
(2-celled stage)
(Blasto(G) (C)

G B
(Fertilisation to
form zygote)
(B)
Blastocyst
Implantation

(Ovum)
(A) Ihr
iss
Aft
growing enmbryo throughfallopian tube
Fig. 3.15 Transport of ovum, fertilisation and passage of
 troDhoblast layer gets attached to the cells of the endometrium and the inner cell mass gives
embryo.
rise to the
After attacchment, the cells of endometrium divide rapidly and cover the blastocyst.
he blastocyst gets embedded in the endometrium of the uterus. This is called implantation,
which leads to pregnancy.

7. Pregnancy and Embryonic Development

-The cells of the trophoblast ditlerentiate into an inner laver and an outer laver. The outer layer is
calledthe chorion and forms the chorionic villi, which are finger-like projections that grow into the
endometrium.
- An intimate connection is established between chorionic villi and uterine tissue, i.e., chronic villi
and uterine tissue become interdigilated with each other and forms astructural and functional unit
between the developing embryo and the maternal body called placenta.
Functions of Placenta
() Provides nutrients and oxygen to the developing embryo.
(i) Removes CO, and waste materials from the embryo.
(oi) Acts as an endocrine tissue and produces several hormones like human chorionic gonadotropin
(hCG), human placental lactogen(hPL), estrogens, progesterones that are essential tomaintain
pregnancy.
In later phase of pregnancy, hormone called relaxin is also secreted by ovary. During pregnancy.
levels of otherhormones like estrogen, progestogen, cortisol, prolactin, thyroxine, etc. are increased
several fold and are essential for supporting foetal growth, metabolic changes in mother and
maintenance of pregnancy.
An umbilical cord connects placenta with the embryo that helps in the transport of substances to
and from the embryo.
The inner cell mass of blastocyst develops into three layers:
(i) outer layer called ectoderm
(ü) inner layer called endoderm
(i) middle layer called mesoderm
Placental villi

Cavityof
uterus

Umbilical Yolk sac

Cord
with its Embryo
vessels

Plug of mucus
in cervix

Fig.3.16 The human foetus within the uterus

which have the potency togive rise to all the
. C c lmass contains certaincells called stem cells
tissues and organs.
After onne month of pregnancy, the embryo's heart is formed.

on 83
 By the end of second month of pregnancy, the foetus develops limbs and digits.
By the end of third month, most ofthe organ systems are formed.
Appearance of hair on the head and foetus movement is observed during fifth month.
After six months, the body iscovered with fine hair,eye-lids separate and eyelashes are also formed
By the end of nine months of pregnancy. the foetus is completely developed and is ready for is
delivery.

8. Parturition
The average duration of humanpregnancy is about 9 months which is called the gestation period.
The act of expellingthe full term foetus from the mother'suterus at the end of gestation period by
Vigorous contraction of uterus is called parturition.
It is induced by a complex neuroendocrine mechanism.
Parturition signals originate from the fully developed foetus and the placenta which induce mid
uterine contractions called foetal ejection reflcx,
This triggers the release of oxytocin from the maternal pituitary.
Oxytocin induces stronger uterine muscle contractions which in turn stimulate further secretion
of oxytocins. Stimulatory reflex between contraction and Oxytocin secretion results in stronger and
stronger contradiction which leads to expulsion of baby out ofuterus through birth canal.
9. Lactation
Mammary glands of female undergo differentiation and start producing milk at the end of
pregnancy. This is called lactation,
This helps the mother in feeding the newborn.
The milk that comes out of the mammary glands during initial days of lactation is called colostrum.
It contains several antibodies (IA) and nutrients(like calcium, fats, lactose) for the baby. It provides
passive immunity to the baby.
Thus, breast-feeding is recommended by doctors for bringing up a healthy baby.

NCERT Textbook Questions

Q. 1. Fill in the blanks.
(a) Humans reproduce (aseNually seuall)
(b) Humans are (onpaos, viiparons, onveepo
(c) Fertilisation is in humans. (Neal nterna)
(d) Male and female gametes are (iplonl hupluid
(e) Zygote is (diplond buapln)
() The process of release of ovum from a mature follicle is called
(g) Ovulation is induced by a hormone called
(h) The fusion of male and female gametes is called
A
(i) Fertilisation takes place in
) Zygote divides to form which is implanted in the uterus.
(k) The structure which provides vascular connection between foetus and uterus is ca

Ans. (a) sexually, (b) viviparous, (c) internal, (d) haploid, (e) diploid, () ovulation, (g) lutein1sis
hormone,(h) fertilisation. (0) oviduct (ampullary-isthmic junction), () blastocyst, () placent A
 Draw alabelled diagram of the
Ans. Refer to Fig. 3.4.
human female reproductive system.
o 4. Write two major functions each
of testis and ovary.
Ans. Functions of testis:
(i) Production of sperms by
(i) Production of male sex seminiferous tubules.
hormone, testosterone, by Leydig cells.
Functions of ovary:
(i) Production of ova (eggs).
(ii) Production of female sex
hormones, estrogen and progesterone.
0. 5. Describe the structure of a
seminiferous tubule.
Ans. A seminiferous tubule is made up of
layer of male germ cells and large Sertoli
The male germ cells undergo cells (nurse cells).
spermatogenesis
sperms. The regions outside the seminiferous tubules to produce spermatocytes, spermatids and
tissue which incudes blood vessels and Leydig cells called interstitial spaces have connective
secrete the male sex hormones called androgens, (interstitial cells). Leydig cells synthesise and
of which testosterone is the principle one.
For diagram, refer to Fig. 3.8.
Q. 6. What is spermatogenesis? Briefly describe
the process of spermatogenesis.
Ans. The process of formation of spermatozoa
(sperms) from diploid spermatogonia is called
spermatogenesis. The male germ cells of seminiferous tubules
in numbers. Spermatogonia grow and increase in size to form multiply mitotically to increase
primary spermatocytes undergo the first meiotic division and primary spermatocyte (2n). The
produce two haploid secondary
spermatocytes (n). Each secondary spermatocyte undergoes the second meiotic division and produces
4 equal haploid spermatids. The spermatids are finally transformed into
process of spermiogenesis. spermatozoa by the
Q.7. Name the hormones involved in regulation of spermatogenesis.
Ans. GnRH (Gonadotropin releasing hormone), LH (Luteinising hormone), FSH (Follicle
stimulating
hormone), androgen-binding protein (ABP), inhibin and androgens.
Q. 8. Define spermiogenesis and spermiation.
Ans. Spermiogenesis: The process involving transformation of spermatids into spermatozoa is called
spermiogenesis.
Spermiation: After spermiogenesis, sperm heads become embedded in the Sertoli cells and are
finally released from the seminiferous tubules by the process called spermiation.
Q.9. Draw a labelled diagram of sperm. ICBSE (E) 2015]
Ans. Refer to Fig. 3.10.
2 10. What are the major components of seminal plasma:
Ans. Seminal plasma is the mixture of secretions of male accessory glands which include paired
Seminal vesicles, a prostate gland and a pair of bulbourethral glands.
Q11. What are the major functions of male accessory ducts and glands?
s Male accessory ducts include rete testes, vasa efferentia, epididymis and vas deferens. These ducts
Store and transport the sperms from the testes to the outside through urethra. Male accessory
glands include paired seminal vesicles, prostate gland and paired bulbourethral glands. Secretion
Of these glands constitute the seminal plasma which is rich in fructose, calcium and certain enzymes.
Ihe secretions of bulbourethral glands also help in the lubrication of the penis.
Q. 12. What is oogenesis? Give a brief account of oogenesis.
Ans. Refer to BasicConcepts Point 3(0).
Q. 13. Draw alabelled l diagram of a section through ovary.
Ans. Refer to Fig. 3.12.
on 5
 Q. 14. Draw a labelled diagram of a Graafian follicle.
Ans.
Theca externa
Corona radiata Theca interna
(made of Basement membrane
granuBosa ceils)
Membrana granulosa
(follicular ceils)

Follicular antrum
(folicular cavity)

Cumulus
(Stalk) oophorous Zona pellucida

Secondary oocyte
Q. 15. Name the functionsof thefollowing:
(a) Corpus luteum (b) Endometrium
(c) Acrosome (d) Sperm tail
(e) Fimbriae
Ans. (a) Corpus luteum: lñ acts as an endoCrine gland and secretes progesterone which is essentual
for maintenance of the endometrium.
(b) Endometrium: It is the innernmost layer ofuterus responsible for nutrition and developmenm
of the foetus. It undergoes cyclic changes during menstrual cycle. Implantation of blastoK
takes place on the endometrium.
(c) Acrosome: It contains hydrolytic enzymes that help in dissolving membranes of the oum
for fertilisation.
(d) Sperm tail: It helps in the sperm movement in the female genital tract for fertilisation.
(e) Fimbriae: It is present at the opening of oviduct which helps in the collection of the egg
after ovulation.
Q. 16. Identify True Falsestatements. Correct each false statement to make it true.
(a) Androgens are produced by Sertoli cells.
(b) Spermatozoa get nutrition from Sertoli cells.
(c) Leydig cells are found in ovary.
(d) Leydig cells synthesise androgens.
(e) Oogenesis takes place in corpus luteum.
() Menstrual cycle ceases during pregnancy.
(g) Presence or absence of hymen is not a reliable indicator of virginity or sexu
experience.
Ans. (a) False-Androgens are produced by Levdig ellsor interstitial cells.
(b) Tiue
() FalseLeydig cells are found in testes.
(d) True
(e) False-Oogenesis takes place in Graafian follices.
() True
(g) True
0. 17. What is menstrual cycle? Which hormones regulate menstrual cycle?
menstrual cycle. The uterus
Ans. The reproductive cvcle in the female primates is calledthe egyis not fertilised this lining s
becomes thick and spongy to receive fertilised egg. If
 needed any longer so, it slowly breaks and comes out through vagina as along with blood and
mucous and is called menstruation.
Menstrual cycle is regulated by FSH(Follicde stimulatinghormone), LH (Lutenising hornone),
estrogen and progesteronc.
0. 18. What is parturition? Which hormones are involved in induction of parturition?
Ans. The process of delivery ofthefoetus (childbih) at theend ofthepregnancy is called parturition.
The signals for parturition originate fiom the fully developed foetus and the placenta, which
triggerthe release of oxytocinfrom the maternal pituitary. Oxytocin actson the uterine nuscles
and induces stronger uterine contractions leading to expulsion of the baby. Relaxin hornone
released by the ovary widens the vagina to facilitate birth.
Q. 19. In our society the women are often blamed for giving birth to daughters. Canyou explain why
this is not correct?
Ans. It is not correct to blame women for giving birth to daughters. The male sperncontains either X
or Ychromosome whereas the female egg contains only Xchromosomes. At the time of fertilisation
when sperm carrying Xchromosome combines with egg carrying Xchromosome of female, XX
zygote is formed which would be a female and when sperm with Ychromosome combines with egg
containing X chromosome, XY-zygoteis formed which would be a male. Thus,scienifically sex of
the baby is determined by the father and not by the mother as blamed in our society.
Q 20. How many eggs are released by a human ovary in a month? How many eggs do you think
would have been released if the mother gave birth to identical twins? Would your answer
change if the twins born were fraternal?
Ans. Only one egg is released by ahuman (female)ovary in a month.
Only one egg is released if the mother gave birth to identical twins.
Yes. Two or more eggs are released in case fraternal twins are born.
Q. 21. How many eggsdo you think were released by the ovary of a female dog which gave birth to 6
puppies?
Ans. Six eggs are released by the ovary of a female dog if it gave birth to six puppies.