Question

Seminal plasma in humans is rich in

• A. fructose and calcium but no enzyme
• B. glucose and certain enzymes but has no calcium
• C. fructose and certain enzymes but poor in calcium
• D. fructose, calcium and certain enzymes

Answer 1

The correct option is D fructose, calcium and certain enzymes

The male reproductive system contains three accessory glands- paired seminal vesicles, prostate and paired bulbourethral/Cowper’s glands.

The seminal vesicle constitutes the main part of the ejaculate i.e., 60% of the volume of the semen, it contains mucus and watery alkaline fluids containing fructose, prostaglandins. The prostate fluid contains enzymes, citric acid, calcium, etc. which help in the activation of sperm to swim.

Bulbourethral/Cowper’s gland secretes a clear viscous mucus which is lubricating in function. Secretions combined form from all these three glands constitutes seminal plasma which is rich in fructose, calcium and certain enzymes. These have roles in the maintenance, maturation and transport of sperms. Mucus from the bulbourethral gland helps in lubrication and passage of semen through the male reproductive tract, buffers from the prostate gland neutralise the acidity in the male urethra.