akroszómareakciót

The acrosome reaction is a crucial event in fertilization, occurring when a sperm encounters the egg's outer layers. The acrosome is a cap-like organelle located at the tip of the sperm head, containing enzymes such as hyaluronidase and acrosin. When the sperm reaches the vicinity of the egg, it binds to the zona pellucida, a glycoprotein layer surrounding the ovum. This binding triggers the acrosome reaction, a process involving the fusion of the acrosomal membrane with the sperm's outer membrane. This fusion releases the hydrolytic enzymes contained within the acrosome.

These released enzymes play a vital role in enabling the sperm to penetrate the zona pellucida. Hyaluronidase helps to disperse the cells of the corona radiata, the outermost layer of cells surrounding the egg, while acrosin breaks down the zona pellucida itself. Successful penetration of the zona pellucida is essential for the sperm to reach the egg's plasma membrane and initiate fertilization. The acrosome reaction is a highly regulated process, and its proper functioning is indispensable for successful reproduction in many animal species, including humans. Defects in the acrosome reaction can lead to infertility.