A zygote (/ ˈ z aɪ ˌ ɡ oʊ t /; from Ancient Greek ζυγωτός (zygōtós) ' joined, yoked ', from ζυγοῦν (zygoun) ' to join, to yoke ') [1] is a eukaryotic cell formed by a fertilization event between two gametes.

Once fertilized, the ovum becomes a single diploid cell known as a zygote. The zygote undergoes mitotic divisions with no significant growth (a process known as cleavage) and cellular differentiation, leading to development of a multicellular embryo [2] after passing through an organizational checkpoint during mid-embryogenesis. [3]

Mar 3, 2025 · Zygote, fertilized egg cell that results from the union of a female gamete (egg, or ovum) with a male gamete (sperm). In the embryonic development of humans and other animals, the zygote stage is brief and is followed by cleavage, when the single cell becomes subdivided into smaller cells.

Apr 28, 2017 · A zygote is the cell formed when two gametes fuse during fertilization. The DNA material from the two cells is combined in the resulting zygote. The cellular mechanisms present in the gametes also function in the zygote, but the newly fused DNA produces a …

Aug 3, 2023 · A zygote is the first diploid eukaryotic cell that resulted from the fusion of haploid gametes (sperm and an ovum) during sexual reproduction. It is the initial stage of an embryo from which a multicellular organism develops.

Fertilization combines haploid sets of chromosomes from two individuals into a single diploid cell, the zygote. Another key function of fertilization is activation of the egg. Contact of the sperm with the egg’s surface initiates metabolic reactions within the …

Jan 9, 2025 · Zygote development initiates the journey of life across diverse biological kingdoms, including animals, plants, fungi, and protists. Understanding this process reveals evolutionary adaptations unique to each group.

3 days ago · The zygote is the first diploid cell that forms following fertilization by fusion of the haploid oocyte (egg) and spermatozoa (sperm) resulting in the combination of their separate genomes.

Jun 5, 2024 · Zygote: Definition: A zygote is a single diploid cell resulting from the fusion of two haploid gametes—one from the male (sperm) and one from the female (egg). This fusion process is known as fertilization.

Oct 21, 2020 · Zygote Definition. A zygote is the first diploid cell that is formed by the fusion of male and female gametes resulting in the formation of an embryo. The zygote stage development occurs in the first week of fertilization.