QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
This release of proteolytic enzymes is key to digesting the zona pellucida. However, it plays no role in the polyspermy block and therefore is incorrect.
10025782
c
Release of Proteolytic enzymes from the sperm's acrosome
QuestionChoice
This is present on the capacitated sperm cell head and is responsible for dissolving the connection between the cumulus-oocyte complex, which is necessary for sperm to penetrate the oocyte. However, it plays no role in the polyspermy block and is therefore incorrect.
10025784
e
Hyaluronidase of the sperm cell head
QuestionChoice
This is the final maturation process for sperm and is necessary for fertilisation. However, it plays no role in the polyspermy block and is therefore incorrect.
10025783
d
Sperm capacitation
QuestionChoice
Release of Ca2+ from the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is known as the cortical reaction and causes intracellular Ca2+ to rise, preventing polyspermy. This rise in Ca2+ stimulates a sequence of processes which hardens the membrane of the oocyte to prevent penetration of further sperm cells.
10025780
a
Release of Ca2+ from the smooth endoplasmic reticulum
QuestionChoice
Potassium ions are not involved in the polyspermy block and therefore this answer is incorrect.
10025781
b
Release of K+ from the smooth endoplasmic reticulum
Concept
Chapter
2693
3963
Mechanisms of Fertilisation
Topic
175
Reproductive Physiology
17554
A 32 year old male attends his GP surgery to discuss the results of a recent semen analysis. The analysis shows hypospermia. The patient wishes to know more about the process by which a sperm cell can fertilise an oocyte.

Which of the following processes ensures only a single sperm cell fertilises an oocyte?
a