Reproduction is a biological process by which organisms generate new individuals, ensuring the continuation of their species. It can occur through two main methods: sexual and asexual reproduction. Sexual reproduction involves the combination of genetic material from two distinct parents, leading to offspring with genetic variations. This method is common in animals, plants, and fungi, and involves mechanisms such as fertilization, where sperm and egg cells unite. Asexual reproduction, on the other hand, does not involve the mixing of genetic material and typically results in offspring that are genetic clones of the parent. This can occur through processes such as budding, fission, or spore formation, and is seen in many bacteria, some plants, and simple animals. The type of reproduction an organism uses is adapted to its environment and can affect its evolutionary fitness by influencing the genetic diversity and adaptability of its offspring.
Researchers have discovered a new role for biogenic monoamines, such as dopamine and serotonin, in the reproductive development of planarian flatworms, suggesting these neurotransmitters also…
A study shows that the energy costs of animal reproduction are significantly higher than once thought, mainly due to indirect costs like gestation. This discovery…
SARS-CoV-2 was detected in male reproductive cells under the microscope even when PCR testing failed to detect the virus in semen. The discovery serves as…
Recent research shows that genes linked to lost traits in stick insects may be preserved, enabling their potential re-emergence over evolutionary time. Traits can disappear…
Baylor researchers developed a reversible, non-hormonal male contraceptive targeting the sperm-specific protein STK33, showing effectiveness and safety in mice studies. In the past six decades,…
A new study reveals that targeting the STK33 protein can induce safe, reversible infertility in male mice, offering hope for nonhormonal male contraceptives. Researchers have…
A breakthrough study by the Institut Curie reveals that embryonic cell compaction in humans is caused by cell contraction, offering new insights to enhance assisted…
Male spear squids adopt the roles of either “sneakers” or “consorts” based on their birth timing, and they stay that way. The day a male…
Three out of four people would alter their exercise routines or supplement usage if they were aware of its long-term impacts. Many young men who…
Researchers at Michigan State University have unraveled the enigma of a lesser-understood sperm structure known as the cytoplasmic droplet (CD). The CD, characterized by an…
Two studies led by Rutgers provide insights into the success and failure of egg cells. Scientists researching the challenge of high miscarriage rates have been…
New research, recently published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, suggests that individuals with higher lifelong estrogen exposure might be…
Armed with its own eyes, antennae, and swimming bristles, the posterior body part of a sea worm detaches for spawning. Scientists revealed its developmental mechanism…
A recent Cochrane analysis examining strategies to increase the likelihood of conception indicates that scheduled sexual intercourse guided by urine-based ovulation tests likely boosts rates…
Researchers from Yale have demonstrated that placental examination resulted in the accurate pathologic determination of more than 90% of previously unexplained pregnancy losses, a discovery…
Researchers have successfully induced asexual reproduction in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, an organism that typically reproduces sexually. For the first time, scientists have induced…
For the first time, scientists have identified a genetic cause of virgin birth, and once activated, this ability is inherited by subsequent generations of females….
Fighting back against mosquitoes by deactivating their sperm. A recent study conducted at UC Riverside makes it likely that proteins responsible for activating mosquito sperm…