Cortical reaction

Definition

The cortical reaction is a process that occurs immediately after a sperm cell successfully fuses with an egg's plasma membrane, during which the egg releases enzymes that prevent any other sperm from binding to the egg. This ensures that only one sperm can fertilize the egg, maintaining the correct number of chromosomes for human development.

Related terms

Fertilization:

The process by which a sperm cell and an egg cell combine to form a zygote, marking the beginning of pregnancy.

Zona Pellucida:

A thick outer covering of a mammalian ovum (egg), which is involved in sperm binding and is modified following the cortical reaction to prevent polyspermy.

Polyspermy:

The penetration of an egg by more than one sperm, which is prevented in humans by mechanisms including the cortical reaction to ensure normal embryonic development