Human Anatomy and Physiology : Help with Spermatogenesis and Oogenesis

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Human Anatomy and Physiology

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Reproductive Physiology

What is the function of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)?

Possible Answers:

Stimulates the corpus luteum to make progesterone

Stimulates testosterone release from interstitial cells

Stimulates estrogen release

Thickens endometrial lining during the proliferative phase and releases luteinizing on the 14th day of the cycle

Stimulates formation of the corpus luteum

Correct answer:

Stimulates the corpus luteum to make progesterone

Explanation:

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the release of estrogen. Estrogen then thickens the endometrial lining during the proliferative phase and stimulates the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) on the 14th day of the cycle. This causes the luteal surge that results in the development of the corpus luteum.

Testosterone release is triggered by luteinizing hormone during spermatogenesis, which does not occur in females.

Human chorionic gonadotropin is used by over-the-counter pregnancy tests to detect fertilization and is secreted after fertilization occurs to maintain high levels of progesterone. When fertilization occurs, progesterone causes a pause in the menstrual cycle; follicle-stimulating hormone will only trigger the estrogen spike if progesterone levels decline enough. With progesterone levels elevated, the corpus luteum is maintained rather than transitioning into the corpus albicans.

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