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Release of the Gametes
In females, the female gametes are released cyclically under the influence of Hormones FSH and LH as stated earlier. The event is termed ovulation and the following sub-events are associated with it:
Development of a cystic swelling or bulge on the surface of the ovary after the ovarian follicle under the influence of FSH and LH undergoes a sudden growth spurt.
Appearance of a small avascular spot, the stigma, on the cystic swelling.
Detachment of some cells of the cumulus oophorus from the interior of the distended follicle prior to ovulation, the secondary oocyte and some cells of the.
Surge of LH, which triggers ovulation proper beginning with the rupture of the stigma thereby expelling the secondary oocyte with the follicular fluid.
NB:
The expulsion of the oocyte is due to intrafollicular
pressure and possibly, the contraction
of smooth muscle
in the theca externa owing to stimulation with prostaglandins.
Enzymatic digestion of the follicular wall seems to be one of the principal mechanisms leading to ovulation.
The expelled oocyte is surrounded by the Zona Pellucida and one or more layers of the follicular cells specifically termed the corona radiata.
.
In males, gametes release occurs during copulation as stated earlier also. It is under the influence of the nervous system.
First, the parasympathetic nervous system induces penile erection prior to copulation.
Secondly, the sympathetic nervous system takes charge of the series of events leading to the ‘forceful’ release of semen-containing sperm cells into the female vagina. This, as stated earlier, is called ejaculation and powerful muscle contractions are involved.
Note that Semen is the product of secretory contributions from the bulbourethral glands, the prostate, and the seminal vesicles.
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