Mammalian Spermatozoon: Post-Testicular Odyssey

Mammalian spermatozoon is a dynamic entity bereft of synthesizing proteins. Its transformation from an immature cell to a competent fertilizing cell is the outcome of a complex set of events which is well orchestrated and synchronized during the journey through the epididymis. This book unfolds the interaction of mammalian spermatozoa with the epididymal luminal fluid, where interchange, exchange, masking and unmasking of glycocomponents on sperm cell surface takes place. The sperm-ovum fusion is a carbohydrate mediated event and consequently exploring epididymal fluid glycoproteins seems to be an innovative and interesting approach in identifying sperm antigens with immunocontraceptive potential. The content of this book is lucid and findings interesting for general and specific reading. The author delves upon characterizing epididymal fluid glycoproteins in rhesus monkey by various techniques and goes ahead to see the significance and role of some heavily glycosylated glycoprotein in sperm maturation and fertility. Can a post-testicular male immunocontraceptive be explored with success? To answer this, the search must go on!