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... > Genitalia > Genitalia, Female > Adnexa Uteri > Ovary > Ovarian Follicle

Urogenital System > Genitalia > Gonads > Ovary > Ovarian Follicle

Endocrine System > Endocrine Glands > Gonads > Ovary > Ovarian Follicle

Preferred term

Ovarian Follicle

mesh:Descriptor

An OOCYTE-containing structure in the cortex of the OVARY. The oocyte is enclosed by a layer of GRANULOSA CELLS providing a nourishing microenvironment (FOLLICULAR FLUID). The number and size of follicles vary depending on the age and reproductive state of the female. The growing follicles are divided into five stages: primary, secondary, tertiary, Graafian, and atretic. Follicular growth and steroidogenesis depend on the presence of GONADOTROPINS. The blister-like mature ovarian follicle containing the OVUM surrounded by an accumulation of GRANULOSA CELLS (the cumulus oophorus) and an increasing volume of FOLLICULAR FLUID. The mature Graafian follicle is ready to release the ovum by the process of OVULATION. A degenerating ovarian follicle as a result of atresia (FOLLICULAR ATRESIA). During atresia, the OOCYTE and GRANULOSA CELLS within the basal lamina die and are replaced by fibrous tissue.

Ovary

Ovum

Ovarian Follicles

Allowable Qualifier(s)

Follicule ovarique

French
Follicule ovarien
Follicules ovariens
Follicules ovariques

URI

http://data.loterre.fr/ark:/67375/JVR-LN7FBCBD-R

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