Abstract
The zona pellucida, a glycoprotein matrix surrounding the mammalian oocyte, hardens after intrusion of the first spermatozoon, thus protecting the embryo until implantation and preventing multiple fertilizations (polyspermy). Definitive zona hardening is mediated by the metalloprotease ovastacin, which is released from cortical granules of the oocyte upon sperm penetration. However, traces of ovastacin seep from unfertilized eggs to cause zona hardening even in the absence of sperm. These small amounts of protease are inactivated by the plasma protein fetuin-B, thus keeping eggs fertilizable. Once a sperm has penetrated the egg, ovastacin from cortical vesicles overrides fetuin-B and initiates zona hardening.
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