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Acrosome

The acrosome is a cap-like structure that covers the anterior half of the head of a sperm cell. It is derived from the Golgi apparatus during spermatogenesis. The acrosome contains hydrolytic enzymes, such as hyaluronidase and acrosin, which are essential for breaking down the zona pellucida (the protective glycoprotein layer surrounding the egg) during fertilization. This process, known as the acrosome reaction, allows the sperm to penetrate the egg and achieve fertilization. Defects in acrosome formation (e.g., globozoospermia) can result in male infertility.

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