Putative Role of a Serpin in Modulation of Acrosome Reaction

Abstract

The acrosome reaction (AR) is one of the prerequisites for successful mammalian fertilization. This is a modified exocytotic process, terminating in the release of various hydrolytic enzymes, which are thought to have a function for sperm penetration of the outer oocyte investments. Various physiological factors seem to play a role in the induction of the AR. Although zona pellucida, cumulus oophorus and follicular fluid have been shown to be potent inducers of the AR in vitro, the actual inducer in vivo is still unknown. Hence, the aim of these studies was the biochemical and immunological characterisation of the “acrosome reaction - inducing substance” (ARIS) of human follicular fluid and the localisation of its synthesis.