Cell surface molecules in sperm egg recognition? and Reaction of sperm:- motility, capacitation,chemotaxis, acrosome reaction, fusion of sperm, egg plasmalemma?
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Jan 6
Cell surface molecules play a crucial role in sperm-egg recognition. These molecules are present on the surface of both sperm and egg cells and are involved in the initial interaction between the two cells. One of the key molecules involved in this recognition process is called the zona pellucida, which is a glycoprotein matrix surrounding the egg. Sperm cells have specific receptors on their surface that bind to the zona pellucida, allowing them to recognize and bind to the egg.
Once the sperm has recognized and bound to the egg, several processes occur to facilitate fertilization:
1. Sperm motility: Sperm cells are equipped with a whip-like tail called a flagellum, which enables them to swim towards the egg. This motility is essential for the sperm to reach the egg and increase the chances of successful fertilization.
2. Capacitation: Capacitation is a process that occurs in the female reproductive tract, where sperm undergo physiological changes that enable them to fertilize the egg. During capacitation, the sperm's membrane becomes more fluid, allowing it to fuse with the egg's membrane.
3. Chemotaxis: Chemotaxis is the movement of sperm cells towards a chemical gradient. The egg releases chemical signals called chemoattractants, which attract sperm towards the egg. This helps guide the sperm towards the egg and increases the chances of successful fertilization.
4. Acrosome reaction: The acrosome is a specialized structure located at the tip of the sperm's head. It contains enzymes that are released during the acrosome reaction. When the sperm reaches the zona pellucida, these enzymes are released, allowing the sperm to penetrate the zona pellucida and reach the egg's surface.
5. Fusion of sperm and egg plasmalemma: Once the sperm has penetrated the zona pellucida, it comes into direct contact with the egg's plasma membrane, also known as the plasmalemma. The sperm and egg membranes fuse together, allowing the sperm to enter the egg and deliver its genetic material.
Overall, the interaction between cell surface molecules, sperm motility, capacitation, chemotaxis, acrosome reaction, and fusion of sperm and egg plasmalemma are all essential steps in the process of fertilization.