TLDR: The acrosome is a structure found in sperm cells that helps them fertilize an egg by breaking down its outer membrane.

The acrosome is like a little cap that covers the front half of a sperm cell's head. It's made from a part of the cell called the Golgi apparatus. In placental mammals (like humans), the acrosome contains special enzymes that can break down the outer membrane of an egg, called the zona pellucida. This allows the sperm's nucleus to join with the egg's nucleus and fertilize it.

Scientists can stimulate the acrosome reaction in sperm cells by using substances like progesterone or follicular fluid. They can also use a chemical called A23187. This reaction can be measured using techniques like flow cytometry or fluorescence microscopy.

If a sperm cell has a round head instead of a normal acrosome, it can cause male infertility. This condition is called globozoospermia.

So, the acrosome is an important part of sperm cells that helps them fertilize eggs. It's like a little cap that contains enzymes to break down the egg's outer membrane. If it doesn't work properly, it can cause fertility problems.

Related Links:

• Golgi apparatus