In mammals (mouse) the sperm bent into approximately 45° to fertilize the egg, but in case of invertebrates (sea urchin) it remains 90°. Why this process occurs and how?
This is a most interesting question. Because I am not quite a specialist in early stages embryology, I would rather approach this problem from (bio)mechanics.
In sea urchin after acrosomal reaction, the acrosomal process remains "sharp" so to say and piercing is perpendicular, thus facilitating digestion, binding, and fusion of the various layers / envelopes / membranes.
In mouse however, after acrosomal reaction, the tip of the head of the sperm is "blunt". Piercing will not be so easy therefore. But, by turning over a certain angle then (I don't know how much), lysing a hole in the zona pellucida will have greater impact. From this non-perpendicular position, fthe eventual using of sperm and egg membranes will be more effective too.
For all clarity, this explanation is just hypothetical, it does not take into account the any molecular aspects. It was mainly based on some clear figures like the ones a
For all clarity, this rather simplistic explanation is just hypothetical, it does not take into account the many molecular aspects. It was mainly based on some clear figures like the ones at http://courses.biology.utah.edu/bastiani/3230/DB%20Lecture/Lectures/a5fert.html
Really good question! I have similar questions as to why the angle of ejection of blood in vertebrate hearts is retained at a reverse 45 degree angle. Here is a link for your interest https://www.udemy.com/evolutionary-biology-for-the-enquiring-mind/learn/v4/t/lecture/5182206?start=0 I am sure it is to do with the physics of electron transport but Im not a physicist! Note that invertebrates have an open circulation of heme whereas vertebrates the circulation is closed. Porhyrins such as heme and chlorophyll are electron transporters. Keep asking questions there will be answers!