Activity 8 – The Reproductive System 🔬🎨

[1] Embryonic Tissue Section

Description: The embryonic tissue are specialized cells that form during the early stages of embryonic development. They are considered to be precursor cells that serve as building blocks for the building of organs and systems in the developing embryo. In the process called gastrulation, three major types of germ layers are established: the ectoderm (outmost layer), mesoderm (middle layer), and endoderm (innermost layer).

[2] Human Testis

Description: The testes, which are also known as testicles, are two oval-shaped organs in the male reproductive system. Their ovular shape is due to the tissues called lobules, which are coiled tubes surrounded by dense connective tissues. They are surrounded by a sac of skin called the scrotum. The primary function of the testes is to generate and store sperm. They are also important for creating male hormones such as testosterone and androgens.

[3] Human Umbilical Cord

Description: The umbilical cord is composed of a bundle of blood vessels that is formed during the early stages of embryological development. It is enclosed by a tubular sheath of amnion and consists of two paired umbilical arteries and one vein. It is a soft cord that extends from the umbilicus of the fetus to the center of the placenta. Its length ranges from 50 to 60 cm, with a diameter of about 1 cm. The umbilical cord allows for the transfer of oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the fetus, while removing wastes at the same time.

[4] Oviduct (Fallopian Tube)

Description: The fallopian tube, also called an oviduct, is a hollow organ that is 11 to 12 cm in length and has a lumen diameter of less than 1 mm. It comprises four anatomical regions: the uterine, isthmus, ampulla, and infundibulum. It functions as a channel for oocyte transport and fertilization.

References:

Hall, A. K. (2012). Stem Cells in the Nervous System. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/embryo-tissue

Jewell, T. (2018). Testes Overview. https://www.healthline.com/human-body-maps/testis#anatomy-and-function-of-testes

Basta M, Lipsett BJ. Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis: Umbilical Cord. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557389/

Han J, Sadiq NM. Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis: Fallopian Tube. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547660/