56.9k views
3 votes
What primarily facilitates the rapid transportation of spermatozoa to the oviducts?

a) Hormonal signals
b) Muscular contractions
c) Chemical gradients
d) All of the above

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

Muscular contractions and the beating of cilia in the uterine tube primarily facilitate the rapid transportation of spermatozoa to the oviducts, augmented by fluid-induced capacitation which increases sperm motility.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary mechanism that facilitates the rapid transportation of spermatozoa to the oviducts is b) Muscular contractions. Following ovulation, high concentrations of estrogen induce contractions of the smooth muscle along the uterine tube, propelling the oocyte into the uterine tube and toward the uterus. These contractions, together with the coordinated beating of cilia lining the uterine tube, assist in the movement of the oocyte. Additionally, fluids in the female reproductive tract initiate a process called capacitation, enhancing sperm motility and enabling them to penetrate the oocyte's exterior.

Concerning male reproductive physiology, the seminal vesicles produce most of the semen that combines with spermatozoa during ejaculation. The semen contains various substances that support the sperm on their journey to fertilize the oocyte. The process of capacitation is essential for sperm to have the capacity to fertilize the oocyte, involving motility improvement and membrane changes necessary for the acrosome reaction.

User Rafael Motta
by
7.9k points