spermatogenesis

[ spur-mat-uh-jen-uh-sis, spur-muh-tuh- ]

noun

, Biology.

1. the origin and development of spermatozoa.

spermatogenesis

/ ˌspɜːmətəʊdʒəˈnɛtɪk; ˌspɜːmətəʊˈdʒɛnɪsɪs /

noun

1. the formation and maturation of spermatozoa in the testis See also spermatocyte

spermatogenesis

/ spər-măt′ə-jĕn′ĭ-sĭs,spûr′mə-tə- /

1. The formation and development of spermatozoa. Spermatogenesis in humans begins with the spermatogonium, the diploid cell that undergoes mitosis to form new spermatogonia as well as cells called primary spermatocytes. Each primary spermatocyte then undergoes the first meiotic division to produce two secondary spermatocytes. Each secondary spermatocyte undergoes the second meiotic division to produce two nonmotile cells called spermatids. The four spermatids then develop flagella and become sperm. Since some of the original spermatogonia replace themselves, the males are able to produce large numbers of sperm continuously after sexual maturity.

Derived Forms

• spermatogenetic, adjective

Other Words From

• sper·ma·to·ge·net·ic [spur-m, uh, -toh-j, uh, -, net, -ik, sper-mat-oh-], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of spermatogenesis¹

From New Latin, dating back to 1880–85; spermato-, -genesis

Example Sentences

HSF5 is required for progression beyond the pachytene stage during spermatogenesis, guiding the meiotic program towards completion and activating genes associated with sperm formation.

From Science Daily

The study's results are alarming, with the linuron-exposed frogs' male offspring exhibiting altered spermatogenesis, increased body weight, and modifications in fat and carbohydrate metabolism.

From Science Daily

The Y chromosome's genes help govern crucial reproductive functions including sperm production, formally called spermatogenesis, and are even involved in cancer risk and severity.

From Reuters

The word "spermatogenesis" — the process by which sperm cells develop — is not likely to crop up in daily conversation.

From Salon

“It has been shown that high scrotal temperatures alter spermatogenesis,” said Mínguez-Alarcón, referring to the 90-day job that is sperm manufacture.

From The Guardian