Spertoj

Spertoj, also known as sperm in English, are the male reproductive cells involved in sexual reproduction. They are produced in the testes through a process called spermatogenesis, which begins at puberty and continues throughout a man's life. Spertoj are small, motile cells characterized by a head that contains genetic material (DNA), a midpiece packed with mitochondria to provide energy, and a long, flagellum-like tail that enables movement.

In humans and many other animals, spertoj are released during ejaculation and travel through the female reproductive tract to potentially fertilize an ovum (egg). The primary function of spertoj is to contribute genetic information to the formation of a zygote, the fertilized egg, during conception.

The structure of spertoj is highly specialized for their role. The head contains the nucleus with 23 chromosomes in humans, along with enzymes that help penetrate the egg during fertilization. The midpiece supplies the energy necessary for motility, while the tail propels the sperm forward.

Spertoj mature in the epididymis after being produced in the testes. During ejaculation, they are mixed with seminal fluid produced by accessory glands, which provides nutrients and a suitable environment for survival during their journey.

Analysis of spertoj is important in fields such as reproductive medicine, fertility testing, and contraception development. Abnormalities in sperm count, motility, or morphology can contribute to infertility issues. Advances in reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), often involve handling and manipulating spertoj to assist conception.