Observations on the structure of human spermatozoa: an electron microscope inquiry

Abstract

The substructures of human spermatozoa as observed in the electron microscope follow a plan closely similar to the one established for ram spermatozoa, including the existence of a galea capitis in the head. Lateral subdivisions of the head show rather greater complexity. Details of surface structures and vacuoles are discussed; marked variations in size, shape and electron-scattering power of the head complicate the establishment of morphological criteria for normality. A qualitative and quantitative account is given of the transverse complexes of the middle-piece, tail and tail-end; brush-effects and their general occurrence, and general effects of temp, shock (from 20 to O"C) are described.