Unit 2 Physiology & Health Higher Human Biology Unit 2 Physiology & Health KEY AREA 1: Reproductive Organs

Higher Human Biology Key Area 1 – Reproductive Organs We are going to build on the knowledge and skills that you developed during N5 and will learn about the following Physiology & Health key areas : - Key Area 1 – Reproductive Organs Key Area 2 –Hormonal Control of Reproduction Key Area 3 – Biology of Controlling Fertility Key Area 4 – Ante- and Postnatal Screening Key Area 5 – Structure and Function of Arteries, Capillaries and Veins Key Area 6 – Structure and Function of the heart Key Area 7 – Pathology of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Key Area 8 – Blood Glucose Levels and Obesity

Physiology & Health Learning Intentions KEY AREA 1 – Structure & Function of the Reproductive Organs Gamete production in the testes Gamete production in the ovaries Site of fertilisation

Reproduction Introduction (N5 Revision) What is the role of the ovary and testes? Define fertilisation Where does fertilisation occur?

1a) Male Reproductive System The testes produce sperm and the hormone testosterone Sperm are formed from germline cells in tiny tubes called seminiferous tubules found in the testes Seminiferous tubules unite together to form coiled tubes that link to the sperm duct The sperm leave the testes through the sperm duct Testosterone is produced by interstitial cells found in the tissue between the seminiferous tubules and passes directly into the bloodstream Sperm are motile and require a fluid to swim in and a source of energy

1b) Male Accessory Glands Fertilisation depends on the motility of sperm. For efficient motility, sperm require a fluid medium and a source of energy. Seminal vesicles secrete a fluid rich in fructose (to provide energy) and hormonal-like compounds (to stimulate contractions of the female reproductive tract) The prostate gland secretes a thin, lubricating liquid containing enzymes which help to keep the fluid at the optimum viscosity for sperm motility Semen is the collective name to the milky liquid released by the male Semen contains sperm from the testes, and fluid secretions from the seminal vesicles and prostate gland that maintain the mobility and viability of sperm

1c) Female Reproductive System Ova (eggs) are the female gametes and they are produced from germline cells in the ovaries The ovaries contain immature ova at various stages of development Each ovum is surrounded by a follicle, which secretes the hormone oestrogen and protects the developing ovum After ovulation (release of the ovum), the follicle develops into a corpus luteum (a hormone secreting body) The corpus luteum then secretes the hormone progesterone which causes changes in the uterus to make it more suitable for implantation of the blastocyst

1d) Fertilisation Fertilisation is when the nucleus of a sperm fuses with the nucleus of an ovum During sexual intercourse, the sperm are released into the vagina and move through the cervix, the uterus and into the oviducts where they may meet an ovum Fertilisation occurs in the oviduct. The fertilised ovum is called a Zygote Oviduct

Physiology & Health Questions KEY AREA 1 – Structure & Function of Reproductive Organs Testing Your Knowledge 1 Page 130 Q’s 1 & 2 2. Quick Quiz