The word "subzonal membrane" is spelled as /sʌbzəʊn(ə)l ˈmɛmbrən/. The first syllable "sub-" is pronounced with the short vowel sound /ʌ/ and the consonant sound /s/. The second syllable "-zonal" contains the unstressed vowel sound /ə/ and the consonant sound /z/. The stress falls on the third syllable "membrane" which is pronounced with the short vowel sound /ɛ/ and the consonant sound /mbr/. The word refers to the membrane that separates the egg from sperm in animals.
A subzonal membrane refers to a structure or layer that is found within the zona pellucida, which is a thick transparent layer surrounding the oocyte (egg) in animals. This membrane exists in various species and plays a significant role in the process of fertilization.
The subzonal membrane is situated between the oocyte's plasma membrane and the zona pellucida, forming a boundary between them. It is composed of glycoproteins and other macromolecules, which provide structural integrity and support to the zona pellucida. This membrane has several important functions during fertilization.
Firstly, the subzonal membrane acts as a filter through which sperm must pass in order to reach the oocyte. It helps to prevent multiple sperm from penetrating the oocyte, ensuring that only one sperm successfully fertilizes the egg.
Additionally, the subzonal membrane assists in the recognition and binding of sperm to the oocyte's plasma membrane. It contains specific receptors that interact with complementary molecules present on the sperm's surface, facilitating the binding between the two cells.
Furthermore, the subzonal membrane is responsible for regulating various biochemical processes that occur during fertilization. It is involved in the release of sperm-binding proteins, signal transduction events, and other molecular interactions that are crucial for successful fertilization.
Overall, the subzonal membrane is a crucial component of the reproductive system in many animals. Its integrity, functions, and interactions with sperm and oocyte play vital roles in ensuring fertilization and the continuation of species.
The outer layer of the amnion, false amnion, derived from the mesoblast.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "subzonal membrane" is composed of two parts: "sub-" and "zonal membrane".
- "Sub-" is a prefix that means "under" or "below".
- "Zonal" refers to a zone or region.
- "Membrane" refers to a thin, flexible layer of tissue that separates or connects parts of an organism.
Therefore, the term "subzonal membrane" can be understood as a membrane that lies beneath or below a specific zone or region. The term is commonly used in the context of reproductive biology to describe a specialized membrane that surrounds the oocyte (egg) and separates it from the surrounding substances.