1/5
Looks like no tags are added yet.
Name | Mastery | Learn | Test | Matching | Spaced |
|---|
No study sessions yet.
Define fertilization
Fusion of two gametes to form a diploid zygote that restores chromosome number, determines genetic sex, and initiates cleavage
Where and when does fertilization typically occur?
In the ampulla (widest part, 1st 3rd) of the uterine tube; the oocyte is viable ~24 hours after ovulation and sperm up to 3–4 days
What is capacitation?
Physiological conditioning of sperm in the female tract that removes glycoprotein coat and enables fertilization; takes several hours
What are the three phases of fertilization?
Corona radiata penetration, zona pellucida penetration (acrosome reaction), and fusion of sperm and oocyte membranes/pronuclei
What prevents polyspermy after one sperm penetrates the oocyte?
Immediate hardening of the zona pellucida after acrosome-mediated penetration prevents additional sperm entry
What is the zygote?
The single diploid cell formed after fusion of sperm and ovum pronuclei