Hello everyone! My name is Sperm, an essential companion throughout a man’s life. Although I am the smallest cell in the body, I play a very important role in human existence: Sustaining the species.
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(Image: TTT, VNE) |
To be formed, I must go through two stages: the division stage (which occurs in the testicles) and the differentiation stage (which occurs outside the testicles).
Division Stage
This stage begins when a male reaches puberty (typically around ages 13-15). My ancestors are spermatogonia located in the seminiferous tubules, which are small, coiled tubes found in the male testicles.
Each spermatogonium contains genetic material (chromosomes) similar to other cells in the body. Through the process of division, one spermatogonium produces four sperm cells.
Interestingly, each sperm cell contains only half of the genetic material; thus, when fertilization (the union of sperm and the egg from a female) occurs, an individual with normal genetic material is formed.
After completing the division process, I start as a round cell. Through a series of changes, I eventually take on a handsome appearance, consisting of a head, a neck, and a lovely tail. Afterward, with the help of secretions from the seminiferous tubules and the contraction of the tubule walls (at this point, I cannot move on my own), I am transported through various pathways until I reach the epididymis.
Differentiation Stage
After completing the division process, I am moved out of the testicles into the epididymis. The epididymis plays a crucial role in my maturation process. It is a tubular structure that connects the testicle to the vas deferens.
In the epididymis, I undergo differentiation, which involves rearranging the cellular components and interacting with certain special substances found within the epididymis, allowing me to acquire mobility. Additionally, this is where I receive substances that have protective effects. At this time, my head contains only the genetic material needed for fertilization in a highly concentrated form, while my tail enables my movement. The energy for these activities is stored in my neck.
Factors Affecting Sperm
Numerous studies have shown that various factors can influence the process of my production, such as nutrition, temperature, and the use of hormonal medications. These factors can affect my robustness in varying degrees: from being weak, deformed, to… being completely absent. Therefore, experts recommend maintaining a diet rich in vitamins and minerals; avoiding prolonged exposure to high temperatures; and limiting smoking and alcohol consumption.
In conclusion, I am born from the process of spermatogenesis, which occurs in two locations: within the testicles (division) and outside the testicles (differentiation). From one spermatogonium, a total of four complete sperm cells are ultimately formed. The average duration of this process is about 72 days. Afterward, we are stored at the end of the epididymis, waiting for the occurrence of copulation. A new adventure begins…
