title: Scanning-electron-microscopy-x-ray microanalysis and distribution of elements within the head of human spermatozoa.
abstract: Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with x-ray analysis has been utilized to investigate the distribution of several elements within the head of human spermatozoon. Despite minor individual variations, a preferential localization of elements (Ca, K, S, P) has been found in the head portion of the cell that corresponds to the post-acrosomal cap and is involved in the fusion of gametes during fertilization.
mesh_terms: D002118:Calcium / Q000032:analysis; D004577:Electron Probe Microanalysis; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D010758:Phosphorus / Q000032:analysis; D011188:Potassium / Q000032:analysis; D013077:Sperm Head / Q000032:analysis* / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000032:analysis* / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D013455:Sulfur / Q000032:analysis
chemical_list: D010758:Phosphorus; D013455:Sulfur; D011188:Potassium; D002118:Calcium