Electrical effects on mammalian sperm

Experimental data show that under the influence of an electrical current or an electrical charge, sperm acrosomal regions swell, release enzymes and disintegrate. This effect can be mediated at low potential gradients. A hypothesis is presented to explain the phenomena. It is suggested that head movement, current-produced anion mobility, and partial neutralization of surface charge by the external charge promote anion entry with associated hydration and membrane rupture. The acrosome thus exposed to the environment releases lytic enzymes.<>