Ovarian Follicles
《英文msh詞典》Ovarian Follicles
[入口詞] Ovarian Follicles
[主題詞] Ovarian Follicle
[英文釋義] 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.