Structure Of Sperm: Definition, Structure, Function

What Is Sperm?

Sperm, or spermatozoa, are the male sex cells fertilizing the female oocyte to form a zygote. In essence, a sperm cell contains half of the genetic material for the formation of a new individual, so its contribution to sexual reproduction is very important.

Structure Of Sperm

• A typical sperm cell is designed to carry genetic material to the egg efficiently.

• It is compartmentalised into the head, the midpiece, and the tail.

• Head: It contains the very front part of the nucleus, which contains the genetic material. The latter is, in turn, covered by the acrosome.

• Midpiece: This region of the sperm is essentially filled with mitochondria, which supply the energy needed for movement.

• Tail: A long, whip-like structure that propels the sperm forward.

Sperm Head

• The sperm head is responsible for penetrating the egg and providing genetic material.

• It is formed with an acrosome that provides enzymes to penetrate the outer layers of the egg.

• The nucleus within the sperm contains the DNA that later fuses with the egg DNA at fertilization.

Midpiece Of Sperm

• The midpiece of the sperm is specialised to provide energy for movement.

• Mitochondria: Generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy currency of the cell.

Tail Of Sperm

• The tail makes sperm motile and thus swims towards the egg.

• Produces a whiplike motion.

• Aids in the traversal of cervical mucus.

Sperm Production: Spermatogenesis

Spermatogenesis is the procedure by which sperm are generated within the testes.

Overview of Process

• Starts at the age of puberty and continues throughout life.

• Takes place in the seminiferous tubules of the testes.

Stages of Spermatogenesis

• Spermatogonia: Division of Stem Cells leads to primary spermatocytes.

• Primary Spermatocytes: Meiosis I results in secondary spermatocytes.

• Secondary Spermatocytes: Meiosis II leads to spermatids.

• Spermatids: Mature to become spermatozoa.

Abnormalities In The Structure Of Sperm

Abnormalities in sperm are most often detected during fertility tests, and their presence can affect fertility.

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