Sperm maturation and glycosidic enzymes. The capacity of sperm to effectively fertilize an overm is acquired during passage through the epididymis. Dr. Hall has developed a hypothesis that sperm are "activated" by modification of surface membrane, specifically, modification of carbohydrate molecules on the cell surface. He proposes that the epididymis secretes enzymes that alter surface carbohydrates. He plans to study these enzymes and their secretion in detail. It is conceivable that this basic research could lead to development of effective male contraceptives.//
