Acrosome is a cap-like structure present on the anterior bulging part of the sperm called the head. It is derived from the Golgi apparatus (cellular organelle). The formation of acrosome is completed during sperm maturation in testes.

FUNCTION

As mentioned above, acrosome helps in fertilization. It contains digestive enzymes namely acrosin and hyaluronidase. These enzymes break down the outer membrane of the ovum, creating a passage for the nuclear material of the sperm to enter the ovum. This haploid nuclear material of sperm joins the haploid material of the ovum to produce a diploid zygote. The acrosome therefore plays a very important role in fertilization and this process is called the acrosome reaction.

MALE INFERTILITY

Male fertility is dependent not only on the number of sperm cells but also on its proper structural and functional morphology (make up). In a condition called globozoospermia, the head of the sperm is out of shape (it is rounded). This impairs the ability of Golgi apparatus to transform into acrosome, resulting in male infertility.