Polyspermy

Definition

Polyspermy occurs when multiple sperm cells fertilize an egg cell, which usually leads to an unviable zygote due to the excess genetic material. This event is prevented in normal fertilization by rapid changes in the egg’s membrane after the first sperm enters.

Related terms

Fertilization:

The process by which a sperm cell and an egg cell combine their genetic material to form a new organism.

Zygote:

A single cell that results from fertilization, containing genetic material from both the sperm and the egg.

Cortical reaction: A process that occurs immediately after the first sperm penetrates an egg, leading to changes in the egg's membrane that prevent additional sperm from entering