Question

Describe the function of fallopian tubes.

Answer 1

Hint: The uterine tube or the Fallopian tube connects the ovary to the uterus. It is present in female bodies and is a part of the reproductive system of mammals. The Fallopian tube transports the ova from the ovary to the uterus in the female body each month.

Complete answer:
Fallopian tubes extend laterally from the uterus. The Fallopian tube consists of four parts- fimbriae, infundibulum, ampulla, and isthmus.
> Fimbriae are ciliated projections having a finger-like shape. It captures the ovum from the surface of the ovary.
> The infundibulum is the funnel-like opening near the ovary which is attached to the fimbriae.
> The ampulla is the section of the Fallopian tube where fertilization occurs. It is the widest section of the Fallopian tube.
> Isthmus connects the ampulla and the uterine cavity. This is a narrow section of the Fallopian tube.
The major function of the Fallopian tube is to transport the ova to the uterus and it takes place in the following way:
> The inner lining or the inner mucosa of the Fallopian tube consists of ciliated columnar epithelial cells and non-ciliated secretory cells or peg cells. These cells help to drift the ovum towards the uterus and they also supply nutrients to the ovum.
> There is a layer of smooth muscle which contracts and assists in the transportation of the ova and sperm. These muscles are highly sensitive to sex steroids and thus the peristalsis increases when the secretion of estrogen increases.

Note:
The Fallopian tube is a female reproductive tract. It has a J-shaped structure. It lies in the upper part of the broad ligament and opens in the abdominal cavity near the ovaries. In the presence of sperm, fertilization takes place in the Fallopian tube.