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NCERT Exemplar · Q5

Q.Spermiation is the process of the release of sperms from:

(a) Seminiferous tubules
(b) Vas deferens
(c) Epididymis
(d) Prostate gland
Haryana BsehMCQ· 1mImportance★★★★★
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Spermiation is the process where mature spermatozoa are released from the Sertoli cells into the lumen of the seminiferous tubules.

To understand spermiation, we must first place it within the larger context of spermatogenesis, the process of sperm formation. Spermatogenesis occurs in the testes, specifically within highly coiled structures called the seminiferous tubules. These tubules are lined by germinal epithelium, which contains spermatogonia (immature male germ cells) and Sertoli cells.

Spermatogonia undergo mitotic divisions to increase their number, then differentiate into primary spermatocytes. These primary spermatocytes undergo meiosis I to form secondary spermatocytes, which then complete meiosis II to produce spermatids. Spermatids are round, non-motile cells.

The crucial next step is spermiogenesis, where these non-motile spermatids transform into motile spermatozoa (sperm). During spermiogenesis, the spermatid undergoes significant morphological changes, developing a head, middle piece, and tail. Throughout this transformation, the developing sperm cells remain closely associated with the Sertoli cells.

Note

Sertoli cells, also known as nurse cells, play a vital role in spermatogenesis. They provide nourishment to the developing germ cells, protect them, and help in their differentiation. The heads of the transforming spermatids become embedded in these Sertoli cells for support and nutrition.

Once spermiogenesis is complete, and the spermatozoa are fully formed, they are released from their attachment to the Sertoli cells and enter the lumen (the central cavity) of the seminiferous tubules. This specific process of releasing mature spermatozoa from the Sertoli cells into the lumen of the seminiferous tubules is called spermiation.

Let's consider why the other options are incorrect:

  • (B) Vas deferens: The vas deferens is a tube that transports sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct. Sperm are already mature and released from the seminiferous tubules much earlier in their journey. …

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