Abstract
The process of fertilization and the role that each gamete plays in that process have
been the subject of investigation in a large number of species and for many years.
However, while much is now known for some species relatively little is known for others.
Indeed, the specific events that are required to occur in the human male and female
gametes and that facilitate fertilization are still somewhat ill-defined. For example,
as of today, there have been numerous biomolecular processes that have been put forth
as playing an important role in the sequence of events during which sperm acquire
fertilizing ability, yet the actual significance of many of these remains suspect.
This article will summarize what is presently best known about prefertilization processes
occurring in human spermatozoa. Tor those interested in nonhuman mammalian and nonmammalian
species, articles addressing this and other topics can be found in the many review
articles cited herein.
Keywords:
Fertilization - human sperm - capacitation - acrosome reaction - signal transduction
