The zona pellucida (Latin meaning "transparent zone") is the specialized area surrounding mammalian oocytes (eggs). It is also known as an egg coat. The zona pellucida is essential for oocyte growth and fertilization.
| Zona pellucida | |
|---|---|
 Human ovum: The zona pellucida is seen as a thick clear girdle surrounded by the cells of the corona radiata. | |
| Identifiers | |
| MeSH | D015044 |
| FMA | 18674 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
The zona pellucida is an extracellular matrix that surrounds the plasma membrane of the egg cell. It helps protect the egg, and has an essential role in fertilization by sperm. It is surrounded by the corona radiata. The corona is composed of cells that care for the egg when it is emitted from the ovary.[1]
- ^ Gilbert, Scott (2013). Developmental Biology. Sinauer Associates Inc. p. 123. ISBN 9781605351926.