The concentration of cytoplasmic free calcium (Ca2+) increases in various stimulated cells in a wave (Ca2+ wave) and in periodic transients (Ca2+ oscillations). These phenomena are explained by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-induced Ca2+ release (IICR) and Ca(2+)-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) from separate intracellular stores, but decisive evidence is lacking. A monoclonal antibody to the IP3 receptor inhibited both IICR and CICR upon injection of IP3 and Ca2+ into hamster eggs, respectively. The antibody completely blocked sperm-induced Ca2+ waves and Ca2+ oscillations. The results indicate that Ca2+ release in fertilized hamster eggs is mediated solely by the IP3 receptor, and Ca(2+)-sensitized IICR, but not CICR, generates Ca2+ waves and Ca2+ oscillations.