ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION Fertilization is the sequence of molecular and cellular events that culminates in the union of the male and female haploid genome (Fig. 1). This review summarizes the current understandings of fertilization-related events that occur both to the male and female gamete. Interaction of the gametes in the female reproductive tract is also included as this is often not discussed related to how dramatically it can either support or interfere with fertilization. As this review is a current summary of information, the reader is directed to more detailed reviews on the spermatozoon, fertilization-related events, and gamete interactions with the oviduct, if needed (1-3).
