Be able to describe the process of spermatogenesis.
Be able to draw a diagram of a sperm cell and label its major parts.
Be able to describe the roles of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) on testicular function.
Be able to describe the feedback control of testicular function by testosterone and inhibin.
Be able to describe at least five actions of testosterone.
Be able to explain the differences among spermatogonium (stem cells), sustentacular (Sertoli cells) and interstitial endocrinocytes (Leydig cells) in the seminiferous tubules of the testes.
Know the function of the blood-testis barrier.
Be able to describe the function of each of the following male structures or accessory organs: prostate gland, seminal vesicle, ductus (vas) deferens, spermatic cord, bulbourethral (Cowper's) gland.
Be able to explain the neurological, biochemical and circulatory processes involved in penile erection.
Be able to describe the major reproductive function of the prostaglandins in semen.
Be able to explain the anatomical basis of vasectomies.
Be able to name and describe the functions of the major female reproductive organs and structures.
Be able to describe the process of oogenesis and in particular be able to state when the various key events normally occur and the number of gametes produced.
Be able to describe in good detail the events and control mechanisms involved in the female reproductive (menstrual) cycle. In particular, be able to sketch estrogen and progesterone plasma concentrations as functions of time and explain what causes these hormone concentrations to change and what effect these changes in hormone concentration has on the ovaries and the uterus. You should be able to completely explain Figures 28.13 in your textbook.
Be able to explain the feedback control of the female reproductive cycle including the effects of estrogens, progesterone and inhibin on the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary gland.
Be able to describe the neurological basis and physiological processes involved in the female sexual response.
Be able to explain how low (but non-zero) sperm counts can result in male sterility.
Be able to explain the processes of sperm capacitation and acrosomal enzyme action.
Be able to describe the key events in fertilization and the zona reaction.
Know where fertilization typically takes place.
Know the role of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and the corpus luteum in the early maintenance of pregnancy.
Be able to explain the difference between the mechanism of formation of fraternal and identical twins.
Be able to name and describe the mechanism of action of at least 8 contraceptive methods.
Be able to describe the mode of action of oral contraceptives.
Be able to sketch the plasma concentrations of hCG, human chorionic sommatomammotropin (hCS), estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy (see Figure 28.18 in your textbook).
Be able to describe the actions and roles of progesterone, estrogens and hCS during pregnancy.
Know the primary sources of the estrogen and progesterone involved in the maintenance of pregnancy.
Be able to describe the structure and function of the placenta and umbilical cord (with particular emphasis on blood gas exchange and the fetal circulatory system).
Be able to describe the unique aspects of the fetal circulation.
Be able to explain the roles of oxytocin, relaxin and prostaglandin during parturition.
Be able to describe the roles of prolactin and oxytocin in lactation.