[Intergamete complementarity: short review].
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this review is to recognize the role of molecules involved in intergamete interactions during the process of fertilization and further understanding of the molecular basis of fertilization in humans for the development of new methods for contraception.


METHODS
We carried out a bibliographic review on intergamete interactions.


RESULTS
Fertilization is the product of a series of ordered steps that must take place both in the sperm and the oocyte for a correct interaction leading to the development of the new individual; this interaction requires that both cells are in perfect state for recognition to occur; this recognition is dependant on terminal oligosaccharide residues present in zona pellucida and their complementary receptors on sperm plasmatic (primary receptors) and inner acrosomal (secondary receptors) membranes.


CONCLUSIONS
Knowledge of these processes will provide a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms in intergamete interaction and could lead to the development of tools for controlling reproduction as well as for helping couples presenting alterations of their
Cardona Maya
Wálter Darío
WD
Grupo Reproducción, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia. wdcmaya@medicna.udea.edu.co
Cadavid Jaramillo
Angela Patricia
AP
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013075:Sperm Capacitation; D013084:Sperm-Ovum Interactions / Q000502:physiology*