Ultrastructural changes in spermatozoa of the brush-tailed possum, Trichosurus vulpecula (Marsupialia), during epididymal transit. Part II: The acrosome

Abstract

The acrosome in spermatozoa from the caput epididymidis of the Australian Brush-tailed possum, Trichosurus vulpecula, typically forms a cup-like structure, sitting on the anterior third of the dorsal surface of the nucleus. The base of the acrosomal 'cup' is narrowly separated from the nuclear surface, while the body of the 'cup' projects voluminously away from the nucleus. During epididymal transit these pronounced marginal extensions of the acrosome are retracted towards the nucleus, and the electron dense acrosomal material undergoes a process of compaction within the plasma membrane of the head to produce the convex ovate form of the definitive acrosome. During this process a variety of bizarre forms of the acrosome are produced before its final configuration is attained.