Polyspermy
Polyspermy
Polyspermy (pronunciation: /pɒlɪˈspɜːrmi/) is a condition in which an egg is fertilized by more than one sperm. This phenomenon is common in many organisms, but in mammals, it usually results in an unviable zygote.
Etymology
The term "polyspermy" is derived from the Greek words "poly" meaning many, and "sperma" meaning seed or sperm.
Definition
Polyspermy is a process where more than one sperm fertilizes an egg. This can occur in two forms: external polyspermy, where multiple sperm penetrate the outer layer of the egg, and internal polyspermy, where more than one sperm penetrates the egg's cytoplasm.
Causes
Polyspermy is caused by the failure of the fertilization membrane, also known as the vitelline membrane, to form and block additional sperm after the first one penetrates the egg. This can be due to a variety of factors, including abnormalities in the egg or sperm, or issues with the timing of fertilization.
Consequences
In most cases, polyspermy results in an unviable zygote due to the excess genetic material. This can lead to aneuploidy, a condition where the resulting organism has an abnormal number of chromosomes, which can cause a variety of developmental disorders.
Related Terms
- Monospermy: The normal process where one sperm fertilizes an egg.
- Zygote: The cell resulting from the fusion of an egg and a sperm.
- Aneuploidy: A condition where an organism has an abnormal number of chromosomes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Polyspermy
- Wikipedia's article - Polyspermy
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