Role of tetraspanin network during sperm-egg interaction and fusion

Fusion of sperm and egg is a crucial moment of the fertilization process which is fundamentally urged by tetraspanin superfamily proteins whose interactions allow mutual interaction of gamets and their subsequent fusion. Tetraspanins are 25-50 kD transmembrane proteins whose various kinds are found in most mammalian cells. Four transmembrane domains containing key amino acid residues indicating their function are their specificity. The essential feature of tetraspanins is their ability to form membranes lateral bonds which are reached thanks to large complexes with other proteins that form the so-called tetraspanin network. The interaction with other proteins and tetraspanins is important for a cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix, adhesion to the other cells, and it plays a role in signal transduction. This bachelor thesis describes and summarizes the role of tetraspanin networks during fusion of egg and sperm. A general introduction of tetraspanins, their structure and functions in cellular processes and interactions leading to the formation of tetraspanin networks which are the key point in fertilization, are given. A description of the fertilization process itself, the protein interactions and changes which precede it in included. The latest findings of the topic from the viewpoint of..