Protein discovery on human eggs may shed light on unexplained infertility

The protein, named Maia after the Greek goddess of motherhood, appears to be involved in the fusion of sperm and eggs

A fundamental step in human fertilisation has been discovered by researchers who say it may offer new insights into unexplained infertility.

Experts have identified a new protein that is found on the surface of human eggs. Nicknamed Maia, after the Greek goddess of motherhood, the protein appears to be involved in the fusion of sperm and eggs.