Ovarian follicular growth:- Morphology, endocrinology and molecular biology, ovulation and it's regulation?
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Jan 6
Ovarian follicular growth refers to the process by which follicles in the ovary develop and mature. This process is crucial for the production of mature eggs and the subsequent release of these eggs during ovulation.
Morphology: Ovarian follicles are small fluid-filled sacs that contain an immature egg, also known as an oocyte. These follicles are surrounded by granulosa cells, which provide support and nourishment to the developing oocyte. As follicular growth progresses, the follicles increase in size and the oocyte within them undergoes maturation.
Endocrinology: The growth and development of ovarian follicles are regulated by various hormones. The primary hormone involved is follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which is released by the pituitary gland. FSH stimulates the growth and development of multiple follicles in the ovary. As the follicles grow, they produce increasing amounts of estrogen, which further stimulates the growth of the dominant follicle.
Molecular biology: Several molecular factors are involved in the regulation of ovarian follicular growth. These include growth factors, such as insulin-like growth factor (IGF) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), as well as various signaling pathways, including the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway. These molecular factors play a role in the proliferation and differentiation of granulosa cells, as well as the maturation of the oocyte.
Ovulation and its regulation: Ovulation is the process by which a mature egg is released from the ovary. It is triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), which is also released by the pituitary gland. The LH surge causes the dominant follicle to rupture, releasing the mature egg into the fallopian tube. This process is regulated by a complex interplay of hormonal signals, including the positive feedback of estrogen on the pituitary gland, which leads to the LH surge.
Overall, ovarian follicular growth, ovulation, and their regulation involve a complex interplay of morphological, endocrinological, and molecular factors. Understanding these processes is crucial for reproductive health and fertility.