SEX CELLS (GAMETES)

Arthimy Fabillar
Ryan Hernandez
Rica Morcelina
Definition: Sex cells, also known as gametes,
are specialized cells involved in sexual
reproduction. They carry genetic information
and are essential for the creation of new
individuals.

Importance: Sex cells play a crucial role in

passing genetic material from one generation
to the next, contributing to genetic diversity
and the perpetuation of species.
 Types of Sex Cells

Male sex cells: Sperm, produced in the testes, are

small, motile cells carrying genetic material.Female
sex cells: Eggs (or ova), produced in the ovaries, are
larger, non-motile cells containing genetic material.

Differences:Sperm are small and motile, while eggs

are larger and non-motile.Sperm contribute the
paternal genetic material, while eggs contribute the
maternal genetic material.
 Formation of Sex Cells
Spermatogenesis: The process by which sperm cells are
produced in the testes through multiple stages of cell
division and maturation.
Oogenesis: The process by which egg cells are produced in
the ovaries through a series of cell divisions, resulting in
the formation of mature eggs.

Differences:Spermatogenesis occurs continuously in

males, while oogenesis occurs periodically in
females.Spermatogenesis results in the formation of four
sperm cells from one spermatogonium, while oogenesis
results in the formation of one mature egg cell from one
primary oocyte.
 Structure of Sex Cells
Sperm:Head: Contains the genetic
material (nucleus) and is covered by a
cap called the acrosome, which helps in
penetrating the egg.
Midpiece: Contains mitochondria,
providing energy for sperm motility.
Tail: Propels the sperm
forward.Egg:Nucleus: Contains the
genetic material (chromosomes)
contributed by the mother.Cytoplasm:
Contains organelles necessary for early
embryonic development.Zona Pellucida:
A glycoprotein layer surrounding the
egg, involved in sperm recognition and
fertilization.
 Function of Sex Cells
Function of Sperm: To deliver the paternal
genetic material to the egg during
fertilization.
Function of Egg: To provide the maternal
genetic material and cellular machinery
necessary for the initiation of embryonic
development upon fertilization.

An example of maternal genetic material

provided by the egg upon fertilization is
mitochondrial DNA.
 Fertilization Process
Fertilization is the process by which a sperm
cell fuses with an egg cell, resulting in the
formation of a zygote.
Steps:Sperm penetration of the egg's zona
pellucida.Fusion of the sperm and egg
membranes.Formation of the zygote,
containing a complete set of chromosomes
from both parents.
A zygote is the initial cell formed when two
gametes (sperm and egg) fuse during
fertilization. The zona pellucida is a specialized
glycoprotein layer that surrounds the plasma
membrane of mammalian eggs, including
human eggs.
 Genetic Variation
Genetic variation refers to differences in the
genetic makeup of individuals within a population,
resulting from the combination and recombination
of genetic material during sexual
reproduction.Importance: Genetic variation
promotes species adaptability and survival by
increasing the likelihood of individuals possessing
advantageous traits in changing environments.
 Abnormalities in Sex Cells
Abnormalities in sex cells refer to genetic or
structural defects that can affect the
production or function of sperm or eggs,
leading to fertility issues or developmental
disorders in offspring.
Examples: Chromosomal abnormalities (e.g.,
Down syndrome)
 Clinical Applications
Clinical applications of sex cells include
medical interventions aimed at overcoming
infertility and genetic disorders through
assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

ART stands for Assisted Reproductive Technology. It refers to a

range of medical procedures and techniques designed to assist
individuals or couples in achieving pregnancy when they are
unable to conceive naturally. ART procedures are typically used to
address infertility issues or to overcome barriers to reproduction.
 Conclusion
Recap: Sex cells are essential for sexual
reproduction, contributing genetic
material and enabling the creation of
new individuals.
Emphasis: Understanding the structure,
function, and formation of sex cells is
crucial for comprehending reproductive
biology and addressing fertility issues.