Acrosome reaction
Acrosome Reaction
The Acrosome Reaction (pronunciation: /ˈækrəˌsoʊm riˈækʃən/) is a crucial process in the fertilization of an egg by a sperm cell.
Etymology
The term "Acrosome Reaction" is derived from two Greek words: "akros" meaning "at the end" and "soma" meaning "body". The term "reaction" is used to describe the process that occurs.
Definition
The Acrosome Reaction is a physiological process that occurs in the sperm cell, specifically in the acrosome, a cap-like structure over the anterior part of the sperm's head. This reaction is triggered when the sperm comes into contact with the outer layer of the egg, known as the zona pellucida.
Process
During the Acrosome Reaction, the acrosome releases enzymes that help the sperm to penetrate the zona pellucida and reach the egg's plasma membrane. This process is essential for the sperm to fertilize the egg.
Related Terms
- Sperm cell: The male reproductive cell.
- Zona pellucida: The outer layer of the egg.
- Fertilization: The process of combining the male gamete, or sperm, with the female gamete, or egg.
- Enzyme: Proteins that act as biological catalysts.
- Plasma membrane: The biological membrane that separates the interior of all cells from the outside environment.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Acrosome reaction
- Wikipedia's article - Acrosome reaction
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