The word "acrosome" is pronounced as /əˈkrəʊsəʊm/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet. It refers to a cap-like structure found on the head of a sperm, which contains enzymes necessary for fertilization. The correct spelling of "acrosome" is often confused with the spelling of "across", hence there is a tendency for misspelling. The IPA phonetic transcription can help individuals accurately spell the term, ensuring that scientific terms like acrosome are correctly spelled for scientific studies and research purposes.
The acrosome is a specialized organelle found in the head of sperm cells. It is a membrane-bound structure located at the tip of the sperm cell's nucleus. The acrosome plays a crucial role in the process of fertilization by facilitating the penetration of the egg.
The acrosome is derived from the Golgi apparatus during the maturation of the sperm cell. It is composed of various enzymes, such as hyaluronidase and acrosin, which are responsible for breaking down the protective barriers of the egg, allowing the sperm to enter and fertilize it. Additionally, the acrosome contains other protein components, including zona pellucida-binding proteins, which help the sperm navigate through the outer layers of the egg.
During fertilization, the acrosome undergoes a process called the acrosome reaction. This reaction is triggered by the interaction between the sperm and the egg, which leads to the release of enzymes contained within the acrosome. These enzymes facilitate the penetration of the egg's outer layers, enabling the fusion of the sperm and egg membranes.
Overall, the acrosome is an essential structure in the process of fertilization. Its enzymes allow the sperm to break down the protective barriers of the egg, ultimately leading to successful reproduction.
The anterior extremity of the head of the spermatozoon, or the body from which this is developed.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word acrosome originated from the combination of two Greek terms: acro meaning extreme or tip, and soma meaning body.