The Relations of the Plasma Membrane, Vitelline Membrane, and Jelly in the Egg of Nereis Limbata

1. The problem of the relation of the plasma membrane to the extraneous coats and cortex of the Nereis egg is discussed in the light of the observations of Lillie, Chambers, and Novikoff. 2. Evidence obtained from experiments with the centrifuge, and by treating eggs with alkaline sodium chloride, indicates that the plasma membrane of the unfertilized egg is external to the jelly precursor granules of the cortex. 3. Experiments with alkaline sodium chloride indicate that the perivitelline space of the fertilized egg is extraovular after jelly extrusion is complete. 4. The cortical behavior (membrane elevation) of the Nereis egg in alkaline sodium chloride and the cortical response (jelly extrusion) following activation of the egg in normal fertilization or parthenogenesis are attributed largely to the properties of the jelly, and presumably, to its reactions with calcium and hydroxyl ions.