EN
The process of spermegg fusion is one of the most important mechanisms involved in successful fertilization. Studies conducted in an effort to elucidate this process are mainly focused on analyzing the interaction between the membrane proteins of male and female gametes. In the last few years, the genes coding proteins which may play an integral role in the process of sperm-egg binding and fusion have been identified. It has been suggested that sperm ADAMs family proteins are involved in this process. The sperm specific fertilin α, fertilin β and cyritestin are among this protein family. The oocyte’s integrins, which are included in egg cell membrane, form receptors specific for those proteins. The other group of proteins, which are connected with sperm-egg fusion, are specific for oocyte CD9 protein and sperm epididymal protein DE. The aim of this review was to present the characteristics of several proteins involved in the sperm-egg interaction process. The exploration of fertilization mechanisms may become the basic element that will improve assisted reproductive techniques and in vitro fertilization in mammals.