3 Biology -- Human Biology: Reproductive System

Explain the process of follicular growth and development inside ovary of human female by diagram?

Explain the process of follicular growth and development inside ovary of human female by diagram?

Follicular growth and development inside the ovary of a human female is a complex process that involves the maturation of ovarian follicles, which contain the eggs (oocytes). Here's a step-by-step explanation of the process:

1. Primordial Follicles: A female is born with millions of primordial follicles in her ovaries. Each primordial follicle consists of an immature egg surrounded by a single layer of follicular cells.

2. Follicular Activation: Throughout a woman's life, a small number of primordial follicles are activated each month in response to hormonal signals. This activation initiates the growth and development of a selected group of follicles.

3. Follicular Development: The activated follicles undergo a series of stages of development, known as folliculogenesis. The process is regulated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) released from the pituitary gland. FSH promotes the growth and development of the follicles.

4. Primary Follicle: Primordial follicles transform into primary follicles. The follicular cells surrounding the egg multiply and form multiple layers. The follicle begins to secrete a fluid-filled sac called the antrum, which surrounds the egg.

5. Secondary Follicle: The primary follicle further develops into a secondary follicle. The antrum expands, and the follicle continues to grow. The granulosa cells, which surround the egg, become more numerous and start producing estrogen.

6. Tertiary (Graafian) Follicle: Among the secondary follicles, one dominant follicle becomes the tertiary follicle or Graafian follicle. It continues to grow and becomes the largest follicle in the ovary. The egg within the follicle undergoes its final maturation process.

7. Ovulation: Ovulation is the release of the mature egg from the ovary. It is triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. The mature follicle ruptures, and the egg is released into the fallopian tube.

8. Corpus Luteum Formation: After ovulation, the remaining cells of the ruptured follicle transform into a structure called the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum produces progesterone, which prepares the uterus for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.

9. Corpus Luteum Regression: If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum regresses, and its hormone production declines. This leads to a drop in progesterone levels, resulting in the shedding of the uterine lining during menstruation.

This process of follicular growth and development repeats cyclically throughout a woman's reproductive years until menopause, when follicular development ceases and the ovaries no longer release eggs.

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