Name the functions of the following:(a) Corpus luteum (b) Endometrium (c) Acrosome (d) Sperm tail (e) Fimbriae
Name the functions of the following:(a) Corpus luteum (b) Endometrium (c) Acrosome (d) Sperm tail (e) Fimbriae

Solution:

(a) Corpus luteum- It is formed upon the rupture of the Graafian follicle. During the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, the corpus luteum secretes progesterone. When the levels of progesterone are high, the secretion of LH and FSH is inhibited which eventually prevents ovulation. The corpus luteum causes proliferation of the endometrium in the uterus preparing it for implantation

(b) Endometrium – The endometrium is the innermost lining of the uterus. It comprises of glands that undergoes cyclic changes during different stages of the menstrual cycle. This in turn prepares it for the process of embryo implantation.

(c) Acrosome – The acrosome is situated in the anterior section of the head of the sperm, It resembles a cap-like structure. It consists of the hyaluronidase enzyme which hydrolyses the outer membrane of the egg. This allows the sperm to penetrate through the egg membrane during fertilization.

(d) Sperm tail – The sperm tail is the longest part of the sperm. It enables the movement of the sperm upon entering the female reproductive tract.

(e) Fimbriae – The fimbriae are situated towards the ovarian end of the fallopian tube. They are finger-like projections. Fimbriae assist in gathering the ovum after the ovulation process. This is aided by the beating of the cilia.