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An Unusual Case of Animal Reproduction

By Joann B. Powell, Elethia W. Tillman

An Unusual Case of Animal Reproduction


 

Abstract

This case study in human reproduction follows Andrea, a college biology student who discovers she is pregnant with twins, but is not sure who the father is. Students are presented with a variety of signs, symptoms, and physiological information that they interpret by researching and answering a series of questions. Students gain an understanding of female reproductive cycles by investigating this unusual pregnancy. Students also discuss the importance of safe sex practices and contraception. Developed for an undergraduate general biology course, the case also could be used in women's studies, human health and sexuality, or advanced high school biology courses as well as upper-division anatomy and physiology courses. There also is an opportunity to discuss the biotechnology involved in DNA/paternity testing (DNA extraction, enzyme digestion, and gel electrophoresis).

   

Date Posted

12/08/2011

Overview

Objectives

  • Distinguish between asexual and sexual reproduction.
  • Define parthenogenesis and describe conditions that favor its occurrence.
  • Explain the function of pheromones in mate attraction.
  • Describe the major differences between oogenesis and spermatogenesis.
  • Define conception, gestation, and parturition.
  • Describe the changes that occur in the mother and the developing embryo during each trimester of a human pregnancy.
  • Explain the role of embryonic hormones during the first few months of pregnancy.
  • List the various methods of contraception and explain how each works.

Keywords

Human reproduction; menstrual cycle; pregnancy; ova; estrogen; progesterone; fertilization; heteropaternal; superfetation; superfecundation; oogenesis; fraternal twins; pheromones; sex; contraception; DNA testing

  

Subject Headings

Anatomy
Biology (General)
Biotechnology
Molecular Biology
Physiology

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division, Graduate

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

Science and the media

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Analysis (Issues), Discussion, Interrupted

 

 

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