The uterine tubes, also known as fallopian tubes, are a pair of thin, muscular tubes that extend from the sides of the uterus towards the ovaries in the female reproductive system. The uterine tubes play an important role in fertility by providing a site for fertilization and transporting the fertilized egg (zygote) to the uterus for implantation and further development.

The uterine tubes consist of several parts, including the following:

Fimbriae: These are finger-like projections located at the outer end of the uterine tubes, which are responsible for capturing the egg released from the ovary during ovulation.

Infundibulum: This is the funnel-shaped part of the tube that lies next to the ovary and is surrounded by the fimbriae.

Ampulla: This is the wider, more tortuous portion of the uterine tube where fertilization usually occurs. The ampulla is lined with ciliated epithelium, which helps to move the fertilized egg towards the uterus.

Isthmus: This is the narrowest part of the uterine tube, which connects the ampulla to the uterus.

The uterine tube walls consist of three layers: the mucosa, muscularis, and serosa. The mucosa is lined with ciliated epithelium, which moves the egg towards the uterus, and contains secretory cells that produce nutrients for the developing embryo. The muscularis layer is composed of smooth muscle, which contracts to move the egg and zygote along the tube. The serosa is the outermost layer that covers the tube.

Overall, the anatomy of the uterine tubes is well-suited to their important role in fertility, providing a pathway for the egg and zygote to travel between the ovary and uterus, and facilitating fertilization and early embryonic development.