Acrosome Reaction

Male infertility remains a significant public health issue. To identify its cause, sometimes semen analysis alone is insufficient. Due to the significance of the acrosome as a bridge in the process of oocyte fertilization by spermatozoa, acrosome reaction (AR) is a significant sub-microscopic component that has to be further evaluated. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is derived from renin-angiotensin system (RAS), together with hyaluronidase and acrosin enzymes, participates in the physiology of AR. Obesity, oxidative stress, prostatitis, varicocele, cancer, and genetic abnormality are a few conditions that may affect how the acrosome reacts. The AR occurs in the female reproductive system; hence, numerous substances or situations, such as low temperature, calcium ionophore, and progesterone, may activate the reaction in vitro. Acrosome reaction may be examined using flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). While the first two are indirect exams, the last one is direct. Acrosome reaction to ionophore challenge (ARIC) score may be used as a guide to decide which reproductive program is best for a couple with male infertility. An ARIC score <11% may suggest the necessity for using assisted reproductive techniques (ART).