Spermi

Spermi is a term used in some languages to refer to the male gametes of animals, commonly known as sperm or spermatozoa in English. These cells carry half the genetic material from the male and are designed to unite with the female gamete during fertilization, contributing to the development of a new organism.

Morphology of spermi typically includes a head containing the nucleus with haploid DNA and an acrosome, a midpiece packed with mitochondria that supply energy, and a tail or flagellum that enables motility. Size and specific structural details vary among species, but the general design supports rapid movement toward the female gamete.

Development and maturation occur through spermatogenesis, with spermiogenesis transforming developing germ cells into mature, motile spermi within the testes. After their formation, they mature further in the epididymis, gaining enhanced motility and fertilizing capability before ejaculation.

Function in fertilization involves navigating the female reproductive tract, binding to and penetrating the outer layers of the oocyte. The acrosome releases enzymes that help breach protective barriers, allowing the sperm to fuse with the egg and contribute paternal DNA to the zygote. While many spermi are released, only a small subset reach and fertilize an oocyte, and their viability is influenced by the environment of the reproductive tract.

Clinically, spermi parameters are assessed in semen analysis for fertility evaluation. Common concerns include low sperm count (oligospermia), reduced motility (asthenozoospermia), and abnormal morphology (teratozoospermia), as well as complete absence of sperm (azoospermia).