Development of the Male Reproductive System

Sexual Determination

• Genetic sex is determined at fertilization: XX (female), XY (male).
• The SRY gene on the Y chromosome triggers testis development.

Embryology

• Testes develop in the abdomen and descend into the scrotum before birth.
• Androgens (testosterone, DHT) drive the development of male genitalia.
• The mesonephric (Wolffian) ducts form the epididymis, vas deferens, and seminal vesicles.
• The urogenital sinus gives rise to the prostate and bulbourethral glands.

Puberty

• Increased secretion of gonadotropins and testosterone.
• Development of secondary sexual characteristics: body and facial hair, deepening of the voice, increased muscle mass, growth of genitalia.

Clinical Notes

• Disorders of sexual development (DSDs) can result from chromosomal or hormonal abnormalities.
• Cryptorchidism: failure of the testes to descend.

Related Topics

• Testes
• Penis
• Scrotum
• Male Anatomy

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See also: Clinical Significance