Fig. 4: The ZP surface structure altered and affected fertilization with aging. | Communications Biology

Fig. 4: The ZP surface structure altered and affected fertilization with aging.

From: Age-associated aberrations of the cumulus-oocyte interaction and in the zona pellucida structure reduce fertility in female mice

Fig. 4

a Classification of SEM images of ZP surface. The regions surrounded by dotted lines are highlighted at the bottom. Magnification x1500 in upper panels, and x10,000 in bottom panels. Type I surface structure has ruggedness with a network and spongy appearance containing numerous pores and fenestrations. Type II shows a more compact structure with fewer pores and smooth surfaces. Type III shows that fenestrations of the outer surface were rare or even absent. b The population of ZP surface classification based on the morphology of Fig. 4a. c, d SEM images of ZP surface in fertilized eggs and unfertilized eggs. The regions surrounded by dotted lines are highlighted at the bottom. Magnification x1500 in the upper panels, and x10,000 in the bottom panels. e The ZP surface classification of fertilized and unfertilized eggs. f, g The number of sperm scars in the oocyte hemispheres.

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