There are Two Protective Layers Around the Secondary Oocyte, the Zona

Question

There are two protective layers around the secondary oocyte, the zona pellucida and the ________.
A) second polar body
B) transverse membrane
C) corona radiata
D) acrosome
E) first polar body

Accepted Answer

The corona radiata is the name given to the layer of granulosa cells that surround the secondary oocyte after it has been ovulated from the ovary. These cells provide some protection and nourishment to the oocyte, and they are in turn surrounded by the zona pellucida, which is a glycoprotein layer secreted by the oocyte itself. Together, these two layers act as a barrier that sperm must penetrate in order to fertilize the egg. The other choices listed are not protective layers surrounding the secondary oocyte.