Fertilization-induced changes in membrane fluidity of sea urchin eggs

Science. 1978 Mar 24;199(4335):1336-7. doi: 10.1126/science.564549.

Abstract

By use of a spin label fatty acid, 5-doxylstearate, an increase in bulk membrane fluidity was observed after fertilization of two species of sea urchin eggs. Eggs partially activated by ammonia showed a similar effect. The data suggest that a structural change involving membrane lipids accompanies activation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Ammonia / pharmacology
  • Animals
  • Female
  • Fertilization*
  • Membrane Lipids / physiology*
  • Membranes / physiology
  • Ovum / drug effects
  • Ovum / physiology*
  • Sea Urchins
  • Spin Labels
  • Viscosity
  • Zygote / physiology*
  • Zygote / ultrastructure

Substances

  • Membrane Lipids
  • Spin Labels
  • Ammonia