Lecture 1 - Gamete interactions

Question 1

Where does fertilisation take place?

Answer 1

The ampulla of the oviduct/fallopian tube

Question 2

Does sperm signal to the FRT?

Answer 2

Yes, this signalling helps sperm survive and preps the environment for fertilisation. 420 genes in the transcriptome of the oviduct showed significant change

Question 3

Which proteins in the oviduct showed significant change?

Answer 3

Ones associated with protein production, maintenance and repair

Question 4

What is the periconception environment modulated by?

Answer 4

• Local response to gametes
• Hormonal stress
• Environmental factors
• Nutrition

Question 5

What is the name of the layer of cells that sit around the outside of the egg?

Answer 5

Cumulus cells

Question 6

What is the zona pellucida?

Answer 6

Clear layer of 3 glycoproteins

Question 7

What happens when sperm penetrates the ZP?

Answer 7

1. Acrosome-intact sperm makes contact with ZP3
2. ZP3 initiates acrosome reaction
3. Acrosome-reacted sperm interact with ZP2
4. Sperm binds to oocyte: cortical granule reaction
5. ZP2 -> ZP2F - no more sperm can penetrate

Question 8

What is the role of calcium in fertilisation?

Answer 8

Calcium promotes formation of male and female pronuclei and fusion (syngamy)

Question 9

What needs to happen for implantation to occur?

Answer 9

Hatching from ZP

Question 10

When was the first IVF baby born and who was the pioneer of IVF?

Answer 10

Bob Edwards and Patrick Steptoe successfully fertilised and reimplanted an embryo in 1978