Question 1

Which structure in the female reproductive tract is the site of fertilization, and what is the significance of this location for the timing of conception?

Accepted Answer

Infundibulum of the uterine tube; it is where the secondary oocyte and sperm unite, and fertilization occurs within 12–24 hours after ovulation

Question 2

After sperm reach the secondary oocyte, which sequence of layers must they penetrate to achieve fertilization?

Accepted Answer

Corona radiata, zona pellucida, cell membrane

Question 3

What is the function of the acrosomal enzymes in sperm during fertilization?

Accepted Answer

They dissolve the zona pellucida and corona radiata, allowing sperm to reach the oocyte membrane

Question 4

Upon entry of the sperm nucleus into the oocyte, what immediate cellular event occurs to prevent polyspermy?

Accepted Answer

The zona pellucida hardens, blocking additional sperm from entering

Question 5

During the pre-embryonic stage, what is the significance of the blastocyst's trophoblast cells?

Accepted Answer

They produce hCG to maintain the corpus luteum and assist in implantation

Question 6

Which extraembryonic membrane is responsible for forming blood cells and umbilical blood vessels during early development?

Accepted Answer

Allantois

Question 7

What is the primary function of the placental membrane during fetal development?

Accepted Answer

It separates maternal and embryonic blood, allowing exchange of nutrients and gases

Question 8

Which primary germ layer gives rise to the nervous system, epidermis, and sensory organs?

Accepted Answer

Ectoderm

Question 9

A patient is exposed to thalidomide during early pregnancy. Based on the critical periods of development, which organ system is most likely to be affected?

Accepted Answer

Limbs

Question 10

During fetal circulation, which structure allows most blood to bypass the fetal lungs by shunting blood from the pulmonary trunk directly into the aorta?

Accepted Answer

Ductus arteriosus

Question 11

Which hormone is secreted by the trophoblast to maintain the corpus luteum and prevent the rejection of the blastocyst by the maternal immune system?

Accepted Answer

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

Question 12

What is the role of relaxin during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

It inhibits uterine contractions and relaxes pelvic ligaments

Question 13

Which event initiates the positive feedback loop that leads to parturition (birth process)?

Accepted Answer

Stretching of the cervix by the fetal head

Question 14

Why does a breastfeeding mother typically not ovulate for several months postpartum?

Accepted Answer

Prolactin inhibits FSH and LH secretion, preventing ovulation

Question 15

Which component of human milk is most important for supporting the synthesis of myelin in the developing brain?

Accepted Answer

High fat content

Question 16

During the neonatal period, what is the function of surfactant in the newborn's lungs?

Accepted Answer

It reduces surface tension, helping lung expansion during the first breath

Question 17

Which process is responsible for programmed cell death during development and throughout life?

Accepted Answer

Apoptosis

Question 18

Aging is associated with both passive and active processes. Which molecular change is characteristic of passive aging?

Accepted Answer

Degeneration of elastin and collagen proteins

Question 19

Centenarians often have certain genetic and lifestyle characteristics. Which of the following is NOT typically associated with living past 100 years?

Accepted Answer

History of smoking

Pregnancy, Growth, and Development: Human Anatomy & Physiology Study Notes

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