IVY CHEN, MPH
Lecturer,
ivychen@berkeley.edu

IB 140: Human Sexuality & Reproduction

Diagrams: Sperm, Semen & Spermatogenesis


   

 

 

 

 


 

Cross section of seminiferous tubule

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Close-up histological slides of seminiferous tubule

 

 

 

Spermiogeneis = details

homunculus inside sperms

Sperm using acrosome to disperse cumulus oophorus around egg

 

Components of semen:

 

Seminal Vesicle Fluid Components

Fructose - 2º energy source for sperm

Prostaglandin – promotes contractions of the uterus & oviduct to help transport sperm into ♀ tract

Ascorbic acid (vit. C) – anti-oxidant

Ergothianine – activates sperm motility

Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) – buffer to neutralize acidity of vagina

Fibrinogen-like clotting proteins – clots semen

·      Seminal vesicle fluid is responsible for the white color of semen.

 

Prostatic Fluid Components

Zinc – needed for fertility, keeps chromosomes tightly coiled. Zn makes up 60-70% of prostatic fluid.

Sodium Citrate – 1º source of energy, fuels mitochondria in sperm

Acid phosphatase – activate sperm motility

Polyamines – activate sperm motility, inhibits bacterial growth, responsible for distinctive odor of semen

Enzymes – activates the coagulation process of the clotting proteins

 

Cowper’s Gland Fluid

Mucus to

Rinse out urethra = neutralize urine

May also add to lubrication during sex