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Answer either A or B in the space below - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 13 - 2018
Question 13
Answer either A or B in the space below. Labelled diagrams may be used where appropriate. A Give an account of hormonal control of puberty and sperm production in ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Answer either A or B in the space below - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 13 - 2018
Step 1
A Give an account of hormonal control of puberty and sperm production in males.
Answer
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The process of puberty begins with the release of a hormone, known as the puberty (or releaser) hormone, produced by the hypothalamus.
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In response, the pituitary gland releases follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and interstitial cell stimulating hormone (ICSH).
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FSH acts on the testicular cells, targeting the seminiferous tubules.
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It promotes sperm production within these tubules.
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ICSH stimulates the production of testosterone in the interstitial cells.
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Testosterone plays a vital role in stimulating sperm production.
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Sperm, or gametes, are produced from germline cells via the process of meiosis.
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Furthermore, testosterone contributes to the activity of the prostate gland and seminal vesicles, as well as the maintenance of sperm mobility and viability.
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There is a negative feedback mechanism involved where high levels of testosterone can inhibit the production of FSH and ICSH.
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This ensures the regulation of hormone levels during and after puberty.
Step 2
B Give an account of treatments for male and female infertility.
Answer
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Drug treatments, including fertility drugs, are often administered to stimulate or trigger ovulation.
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Some medications can prevent the negative feedback effect of estrogen on FSH production, enhancing fertility.
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Other treatments may involve mimicking the effect of FSH and ICSH, thereby aiding in the reproductive process.
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Artificial insemination is another method where a woman may be treated with sperm when no natural sperm is available.
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Intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a technique where sperm is injected directly into an egg.
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Sperm can be obtained through surgical means if necessary.
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In vitro fertilization (IVF) allows for fertilization to occur outside of the body, where eggs are retrieved and fertilized in a lab.
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The resulting zygotes or fertilized eggs can be implanted into the uterus.
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Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) can also be performed to identify genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities before implantation.