The oviduct is a complex and essential reproductive organ in female mammals, and is composed of several distinct morphological regions. It is responsible for the transport and nourishment of the gametes, and plays a role in fertilization and early embryonic development (Kumar, 2017). This article aims to review the structure and function of the oviduct, and discuss the role of the oviduct in the reproductive cycle.
The oviduct is composed of four distinct regions: infundibulum, ampulla, isthmus, and uterus. The infundibulum is the most proximal region and is characterized by large ciliated epithelial cells and a rich lymphatic network. The ampulla is the longest and most distensible region and is the site of sperm storage. The isthmus is a small, muscular region that contracts to propel the gametes towards the uterus. The uterus is the most distal region of the oviduct and is the site of fertilization and early embryonic development (Kumar, 2017).
The oviduct plays an important role in the reproductive cycle. It is responsible for the transport of gametes from the ovary to the uterus, and for the nourishment of the ovulated oocyte. The ciliated epithelial cells of the infundibulum are responsible for the movement of the gametes through the oviduct. The isthmus is responsible for propelling the gametes towards the uterus. The mucosal epithelium of the oviduct is responsible for providing nutrients to the gametes, and for acting as a barrier to the entry of pathogenic microorganisms (Kumar, 2017).
The oviduct also plays a role in fertilization. The oocyte is propelled towards the uterus and is surrounded by sperm in the ampulla. Fertilization occurs in the uterus, where the sperm and oocyte fuse, and the zygote is formed. The oviduct also provides an environment for early embryonic development. In some species, the oviduct secretes proteins and other molecules which are important for the development of the embryo (Kumar, 2017).
In conclusion, the oviduct is an essential organ in female mammals. It is composed of four distinct regions which are responsible for the transport and nourishment of the gametes, and for the fertilization and early embryonic development.
References
Kumar, A. (2017). Oviduct: Structure and Functions. In Encyclopedia of Reproduction (pp. 726-731). Academic Press.