Infertility and Immunocontraception based on zona pellucida

The zona pellucida (ZP) is an extracellular matrix surrounding ovarian oocytes, ovulated eggs and preimplantation embryos. It plays several important roles at different stages of reproduction. Its constituent glycoproteins are expressed specifically in the ovary. It is thus possible to produce autoantibodies to ZP proteins that interfere with reproductive functions including folliculogenesis, fertilization and implantation. First, this article describes the history of anti-ZP antibodies detected in women with idiopathic infertility. Second, the current relationship between anti-ZP antibodies and infertility is discussed in relation to assisted reproductive medicine. Third, we introduce the latest studies of animal experiments involving the ZP. Finally, immunocontraceptive vaccine development using various ZP antigens is reviewed.