Cumulus cells (CCs) originating from undifferentiated granulosa cells (GCs) differentiate in
mural granulosa cells (MGCs) and CCs during antrum formation in the follicle by the …

BACKGROUND Initially identified for their capability to induce heterotopic bone formation,
bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are multifunctional growth factors that belong to the …

Background Oocyte growth is accompanied by follicular development in mammalian
ovaries. Since the discovery of two oocyte‐derived factors, growth differentiation factor 9 …

Prior to ovulation, the mammalian oocyte undergoes a process of differentiation within the
ovarian follicle that confers on it the ability to give rise to an embryo. Differentiation …

The estrous cycle is regulated by rhythmic endocrine interactions of the nervous and
reproductive systems, which coordinate the hormonal and ovulatory functions of the ovary …

The ovarian follicle is the structural and functional unit of the ovary, composed of the female
gamete (the oocyte) and supportive somatic cells. Follicles are not only the source of a …

Ovarian aging leads to diminished fertility, dysregulated endocrine signaling and increased
chronic disease burden. These effects begin to emerge long before follicular exhaustion …

Ovarian Granulosa Cells (GCs) are known to proliferate in the developing follicle and
undergo several biochemical processes during folliculogenesis. They represent a …

During ovarian follicular development, granulosa cells proliferate and progressively
differentiate to support oocyte maturation and ovulation. To determine the underlying links …

Making functional eggs requires a bidirectional conversation between oocytes and their
companion somatic cells. Filopodia emanating from somatic cells carry crucial …