MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach) The Reproductive System
Oct 7, 2025
Explore the fascinating world of the reproductive system! Discover the intricate processes of spermatogenesis and oogenesis, and how sperm and eggs journey through human reproduction. Unravel the hormonal dance during the menstrual cycle, learn how fertilization occurs, and uncover the connection between maternal age and Down Syndrome risk. Dive into early embryonic stages, from morula to blastocyst, and understand germ layer formation and its significance. Get ready for an engaging deep dive into biology and biochemistry!
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Core Reproductive Anatomy
- The reproductive system's main organs differ by sex: testes and associated ducts in males, ovaries and uterine structures in females.
- Knowing these locations helps track where spermatogenesis and oogenesis occur and where gametes travel.
Memorize Spermatogenesis Steps
- Track cell names: spermatogonia → primary spermatocyte → secondary spermatocyte → spermatid → spermatozoa.
- Use the 1→2→4 pattern to predict haploid vs diploid status during spermatogenesis.
Meiosis Produces Haploid Gametes
- Meiosis turns one diploid gamete into four haploid cells via two divisions: homologs split in meiosis I and sister chromatids in meiosis II.
- This underlies why spermatogenesis yields multiple functional gametes from one precursor.