Changes

==Introduction==

==Introduction==

Accessory sex glands are all found along the length of the pelvic urethra. They produce secretions containing lots of different components many of which can be found also the blood. One of the most important substances is fructose which provides an energy source for sperm. Along with providing nutrition for spermatozoa sex gland secretions facilitate movement of the sperm as well as providing a physiological buffer against the acidic environment of the female tract. There is species variation in which glands are present:

Accessory sex glands are all found along the length of the pelvic urethra. They produce secretions containing lots of different components many of which can be found also the blood. One of the most important substances is fructose which provides an energy source for sperm. Along with providing nutrition for spermatozoa sex gland secretions facilitate movement of the sperm as well as providing a physiological buffer against the acidic environment of the female tract. There is species variation in which glands are present (see figure).

*Bull and stallion – Ampullary, vesicular, prostate and bulbourethral glands

*Boar – Vesicular, prostate and bulbourethral glands

*Tom Cat – Ampullary, prostate and bulbourethral glands

| Bull || + || + || + || +

| Boar || - || + || + || +

| Tom Cat || + || + || + || -

 

 

Development and function of the accessory sex glands is androgen dependant. This is highlighted by individuals producing little or no androgens having small accessory sex glands.

Development and function of the accessory sex glands is androgen dependant. This is highlighted by individuals producing little or no androgens having small accessory sex glands.