Gain Insight into Human Oocyte Surface Morphology with Tescan CLARA SEM

Analyze human oocyte surface morphology and sperm interaction in ultrastructural detail using SEM imaging.

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Advancing Reproductive Research Through High-Resolution SEM Imaging

Understanding the ultrastructure of human oocytes is critical for advancing assisted reproductive technologies, yet this remains a challenge due to their fragile nature and complex surface topography. A critical step in fertilization is the interaction of sperm with the zona pellucida (the glycoprotein layer that surrounds the oocyte). This process involves intricate sperm–oocyte surface interactions that are difficult to capture in detail using conventional light microscopy.

Advanced imaging methods are therefore essential. Tescan scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) provide ultra-high resolution imaging of surface morphology and interactions such as sperm attachment, delivering insights that go beyond the limits of light microscopy. These capabilities support both fundamental research and the development of clinical applications in reproductive medicine.

Why Study Human Oocyte Surface Morphology

with TESCAN CLARA SEM?

Human oocyte surface morphology with multiple sperm binding, colored SEM image

Human oocyte with attached spermatozoa, SEM

Ultra-high resolution SEM image showing sperm heads attached to the zona pellucida, SEM

SEM image of a sperm cell bound to the human oocyte surface in sub-nanometer resolution

SEM image of a sperm cell bound to the human oocyte surface

01

Root of the Problem

Studying the surface morphology of human oocytes is essential for understanding the process of fertilization. However, light microscopy imaging techniques lack the resolution and contrast required for detailed oocyte surface analysis.

Due to complex topography, dedicated DEPTH mode was used to capture fine structural details of the egg-sperm interaction to completely visualize all details with high depth of focus.

Using both in-chamber and in-beam secondary electron (SE) detectors provided a complementary imaging advantage that is especially important for delicate, complex samples like human oocytes.

Visualize oocyte surface morphology and gamete interaction with clarity and structural integrity using Tescan SEM Systems.

02

Materials and Methods

Visualizing Human Oocyte Surface Morphology

Spare human gametes, donated from IVF treatments, were chemically fixed and stained, dehydrated, coated with gold, and prepared for high-resolution SEM imaging.

High-resolution imaging was performed using the Tescan CLARA UHR-SEM under high vacuum conditions. Due to the topographically complex surface of oocytes, a dedicated DEPTH mode was employed to maintain sharp focus across the entire surface.

Images were captured using the In-chamber secondary electron (SE) detector, the In-beam SE detector, or a combination of both . The in-chamber detector emphasizes overall surface topography, while the in-beam detector provides high-resolution detail at short working distances. By combining signals from both detectors, we obtained comprehensive images with high resolution and accurate contrast.

This approach enabled detailed visualization of sperm–oocyte interactions, including multiple sperm heads and acrosomal remnants, vesicle structures containing enzymes critical for oocyte penetration.

03

Results and Discussion

High-Resolution Imaging of Oocyte Surface Morphology and Sperm Interaction

Ultra-high resolution SEM revealed the complex surface of human oocytes and detailed sperm-oocyte interactions, including acrosomal remnants critical for fertilization.

Using both in-chamber and in-beam SE detectors provided simultaneous topographic context and fine structural detail, preserving delicate structures while delivering ultra-high resolution, high-contrast images.

This approach reveals ultrastructural details far beyond the reach of light microscopy, enabling detailed analysis of gamete interactions, and unlocking new potential for both basic research and reproductive medicine.

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Tescan Instruments & Technology

Used in This Workflow

Tescan CLARA

Tescan CLARA is engineered for advanced biological imaging under both ambient and cryogenic conditions. It supports a wide range of workflows, enabling researchers to capture complex biological structures and visualize them in 2D and 3D with exceptional detail.

BrightBeam™ technology delivers ultra-high resolution and sharp, contrasted images even at very low beam energies.

In-Flight™ beam tracing and automated alignments enable users to optimize imaging and analysis quickly and consistently.

Wide Field Optics™ allows distortion-free navigation from 1× overview down to nanoscale features

MultiVac™ Imaging Mode automates low-vacuum aperture and water-vapor operation for imaging of sensitive samples.
TESCAN Essence™ interface ensures effortless operation and multi-user support for streamlined operation across all experience levels.

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