Fertilization and Early Development

What is the primary enzyme in sperm that facilitates penetration of the zona pellucida during fertilization?

Where in the female reproductive system does fertilization primarily take place?

Which mechanism occurs to prevent multiple sperm from fertilizing the same oocyte?

What term describes the rapid mitotic divisions that occur in the zygote after fertilization?

At what point post-fertilization does the blastocyst typically implant into the uterine wall?

Which hormone produced by trophoblast cells is key for pregnancy confirmation?

Which embryonic structure contributes to the formation of the placenta?

How is the morula characterized after several cell divisions of the zygote?

What process is responsible for the removal of the zona pellucida to allow implantation?

Which cell type in the blastocyst is responsible for developing into the embryo proper?

Fertilization

Acrosin, an enzyme present in the sperm head, is responsible for breaking down the zona pellucida, a protective layer surrounding the oocyte.
Fertilization typically occurs in the ampulla of the fallopian tube.
Cortical reaction is a process that prevents polyspermy (multiple sperm fertilizing an egg). It involves the release of enzymes from cortical granules that harden the zona pellucida, preventing further sperm entry.

Development after Fertilization

After fertilization, the zygote undergoes rapid mitotic divisions called cleavage, resulting in a solid ball of cells called a morula.
The morula further develops into a blastocyst, a hollow ball of cells with an inner cell mass (ICM) and an outer layer called the trophoblast.
The blastocyst implants into the uterine wall around 6-7 days after fertilization.
The trophoblast differentiates into the syncytiotrophoblast, which invades the maternal endometrium during implantation.

Roles of Hormones in Early Pregnancy

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is produced by the trophoblast after implantation. It maintains the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone to support pregnancy.
hCG is detected in urine and blood tests to confirm pregnancy.

Early Embryonic Structures

The inner cell mass gives rise to the embryo proper.
The hypoblast forms the primitive yolk sac, which provides nutrients to the early embryo.
The trophoblast forms the placenta, which facilitates nutrient and gas exchange between the mother and fetus.

Placental Development

The placenta starts forming immediately after implantation.
The placenta is fully established for nutrient exchange around the 12th week of pregnancy.
The blastocyst receives nutrients from secretions of the uterine glands before full implantation.

This quiz covers the processes of fertilization and the early stages of development following fertilization. Topics include the role of acrosin, the cortical reaction, cleavage, and the formation of the blastocyst. Test your knowledge on these crucial biological processes!