The protein encoded by this gene is a major structural component of the ZP and functions in primary binding and stimulation of the sperm acrosome reaction.

[5] In mice, ZP3 (more specifically the portion in its exon 7) is the single ZP protein that is sufficient and necessary for sperm binding in vitro,[6] but is insufficient for fertilization in vivo.

[11] The Zona Pellucida (ZP) is a complex matrix of glycoprotein that surrounds the oocyte and plays a crucial role in the attachment of sperm during reproduction.

Ultimately, through the facilitation of sperm binding and the initiation of the acrosome reaction, the ZP proteins are essential to reproduction and have an important impact on fertility.

Research through the Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine conducted experiments to determine the mechanisms surrounding possible mutations to the ZP gene and how they would impact fertility.