Cell Component
zona pellucida Audio
zo·na pel·lu·ci·da
Subclass of:
Extracellular Matrix; Ovum
Definitions related to zona pellucida:
  • A thick layer of glycoprotein that surrounds the plasma membrane of the oocytes of mammals, and functions to protect the oocyte during growth and transport, assist with fertilization and spermatozoa binding, preventing polyspermy, facilitate blastocyst development, and prevent ectopic pregnancy.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • A tough transparent membrane surrounding the OVUM. It is penetrated by the sperm during FERTILIZATION.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
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