Oogenesis Flashcards
Folliculogenesis
Formation and development of ovarian follicles = endocrine structures that participate in coordination of reproductive cycles and support development of oocyte
Oogenesis
Process of differentiation and release of a mature oocyte for fertilization
Mitotic Phase
PGCs colonize bipotential gonads - gonads differentiate into ovaries and PCGs differentiate into ooginia
Meiotic Phase
Characterized by onset of meiosis and formation of primary oocytes
Formation of Primordial follicles
1st layer of granulosa cells creates new biochemical environment within follicle which stimulates differentiation of oogonium
Primary Oocytes
Enter meiosis 1 which is then arrested at prophase 1 (diplotene stage)
Formation of Germinal Vesicle
Envelope surrounding large oocyte nucleus with arrested, dense DNA
Cytoplasmic Development
Characterized by substantial growth of cytoplasm and formation of specialized cellular structures
-activation of primordial follicles
Formation of Zona Pellucida
Synthes by oocyte, protects and covers ZP - important for fertilization
Formation of Gap Junctions
Cytoplasmic projections from granulosa cells cross ZP, critical for communication btwn granulosa and oocyte, granulosa cells take on many responsibilities for oocyte growth