Medicine is rich in a wide variety of terms. Some of them are simple and understandable to ordinary people. Others require some explanation. This article will tell you what sperm is. You will learn about the structural features of this cell. You can also find out how much sperm is alive outside the body of a man. It is worth explaining about the basic functions of the gamete.
What is a sperm cell?
This cell is present in the body of males of different species. However, the gamete is most commonly studied in humans. If you have a question, what is a sperm cell, then this article will tell you about it.
A sperm is a reproductive cell, without which procreation is impossible. It is formed in the testicles of a man and is secreted during ejaculation. Many factors influence sperm production. This is the work of the hormonal system of a man, his lifestyle, emotional and physical condition. The structure of the gamete is very interesting. What is a sperm cell? This is a cell that has a head, a main body and a tail. Gametes have a fairly high speed. This is what allows fertilization. Those cells that do not have one of the parts or move incorrectly are called sperm more often. It is worth saying that it is the sperm that determines the gender of the unborn child. This fact depends on the content of certain chromosomes in the gamete. The kit may contain X or igre chromosome. Accordingly, at conception, a female or male fetus is formed.
Cell structure
As you already know, the sperm consists of the head, body and tail. These parts, in turn, have their own characteristics. Consider them.
- Head. This part contains the nucleus having a specific set of chromosomes. It is very important for fertilization. In addition, there is an acrosome. This substance is not involved in the process of zygote formation. However, it allows you to dissolve the shell of the egg and penetrate inside. The centrosome is an important detail that allows you to organize the correct movement of the ponytail.
- Body. There are no parts important for fertilization. However, there is a cytoskeleton in the body of the sperm. It is this part that helps the cell advance and achieve its goal.
- Tail. This part does not carry chromosomes. But it is worth saying that without it, the male gamete simply can not advance. The work of the tail is regulated by the centrosome, which is located in the head of the cell. There is one feature. If male cells do not have tails, then fertilization can occur through a test tube.
Correct sperm structure is very important for fertilization. That is why doctors pay special attention to this item.
Main goals
What is a sperm, you already know. Why is this small cell of the male body needed? The main feature of a gamete is that it can exist outside the host’s body. Moreover, in a favorable environment, sperm live up to ten days.
The main task of the male gamete is fertilization. It can occur naturally or artificially. Cells enter the body of the representative of the weaker sex and overcome the cervical canal. It is worth noting that one cell will not be enough. Despite the fact that only a single sperm and egg merge during conception, many similar cells are needed for the movement of the male gamete.
After overcoming the female genital organs, the sperm enters the egg. Next, continuous division begins. The zygote moves through the fallopian tubes and enters the uterus. Here the already formed substance is called the fetal egg.
Possible problems
The male sperm does not always have the correct structure. Often, the stronger sex have to face problems. Pathologies are identified after an analysis called a spermogram.
So, some cells may have an incorrect structure or impaired movement. Sometimes there are partial damage to the head or tail of sperm. In medicine, there are certain standards that male gametes must comply with. With violations and pathologies, corrections are carried out. Treatment allows you to restore sperm health and establish the reproductive function of men.
Summarizing
Now you know what a sperm is. This cell is the smallest in the body of a man, but it performs very important functions. The gamete also has its own individual characteristics. It is the sperm that allows a man to continue his genus and reproduce offspring. It should be noted that the structure and functions of this cell are studied in the school curriculum. Every person, especially a man, must know what a sperm cell is. Check the quality of your reproductive cells. Good luck!