Video Transcript
What is the main function of the ciliated epithelial cells in the female reproductive system? (A) Protecting female organs from bacterial infections. (B) Releasing hormones to support the development of the early embryo. (C) Creating a current that moves the fertilized ovum towards the uterus. Or (D) releasing mucus to lubricate the oviduct.
To answer this question, let’s look at ciliated epithelial cells, their function, and their location within the female reproductive system. Ciliated epithelial cells are found in many places in the human body. They are important in moving substances along tracks and tubes. Cilia are long thin extensions of the plasma membrane. They move rhythmically and create currents.
Here’s a diagram of the female reproductive system with the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries indicated. The ciliated epithelial cells are most abundant in the fallopian tubes. During ovulation, the ovary releases an egg or ovum into the fallopian tube. Here, it is fertilized by sperm. The fertilized ovum then needs to move to the uterus, where the embryo will develop and implant to create a pregnancy. As you might have concluded already, the currents created by the ciliated cells allow this movement of the ovum towards the uterus.
From the description of ciliated epithelial cells and their location in the female reproductive system, we can conclude that the main function of these cells is given by answer choice (C), creating a current that moves the fertilized ovum towards the uterus.
