The Reproductive System Part 2

Chapter 39

Section 3

This artificially colored scanning electron micrograph shows sperm (orange objects) on the uterine wall.

The Female Reproductive System

• The main function of the female reproductive system is to produce ova. In addition, the female reproductive system prepares the female's body to nourish a developing embryo.

• the ovaries usually produce only one mature ovum (plural: ova), or egg, each month.

The Menstrual Cycle

• The interaction of the reproductive system and the endocrine system in females takes the form of a complex series of periodic events called the menstrual cycle

• The cycle takes an average of about 28 days. (about a month, test question)

• During the menstrual cycle, an egg develops and is released from an ovary.

• In addition, the uterus is prepared to receive a fertilized egg.

• If the egg is fertilized, it is implanted in the uterus and embryonic development begins.

• If an egg is not fertilized, it is discharged, along with the lining of the uterus.

The process by which a sperm joins an egg is called fertilization.Once the sperm nucleus enters the egg, the egg's cell membrane changes, preventing other sperm from entering.

Gastrulation

• takes place in the uterus. (test question)

• The result of gastrulation is the formation of three cell layers: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. (test question)

• all of the organs and tissues of the embryo will be formed from these germ layers.

• The ectoderm will develop into the skin and the nervous system.

• The endoderm forms the lining of the digestive system and many of the digestive organs.

• Mesoderm cells differentiate to form many of the body's internal tissues and organs.

placenta

• The placenta is the connection between mother and developing embryo. (test question)

Assignment

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