Fig. 3

Scanning and transmission electron micrographs of immature oocytes and mature eggs before and after fertilization. a A fractured immature oocyte showing microvilli (M) beneath the vitelline layer (VL) and organelles in the cytoplasm. b Microvilli project from the oocyte’s surface into the VL. Cortical granules (CG). c A mature egg treated with 1-MA for 50 min. At this optimal period of fertilizability, microvilli (M) beneath the VL are shorter. d The ultrastructure of a mature egg stimulated with 1-MA for 50 min shows shortened microvilli (M) and cortical granules (CG) positioned beneath the egg surface. e Fertilization envelope (FE) elevation in a mature egg 3 min after insemination showing the spherical bodies (arrow) in the perivitelline space following CG exocytosis. Hyaline layer (HL). f The electron-dense spherical bodies of the CG in the egg surface before fertilization in D are now seen in the perivitelline space (PS) upon insemination. Same magnification in all figures