Graafian follicle
Graafian Follicle
Graafian follicle (pronounced: /ɡrɑːfiːən ˈfɒlɪkəl/), also known as a mature ovarian follicle, is a fluid-filled sac that contains an immature egg, or oocyte. It is named after the Dutch anatomist Regnier de Graaf who first described it in the 17th century.
Etymology
The term "Graafian follicle" is derived from the name of Regnier de Graaf, a 17th-century Dutch physician and anatomist who made significant contributions to the understanding of human reproductive biology. The term "follicle" comes from the Latin word "folliculus", meaning "small bag".
Function
The primary function of the Graafian follicle is to protect and nourish the developing oocyte. During the menstrual cycle, several follicles begin to mature in the ovary, but usually only one Graafian follicle fully matures and releases its oocyte during ovulation. This process is regulated by hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
Related Terms
- Oocyte: The immature egg cell contained within the Graafian follicle.
- Ovary: The female reproductive organ in which Graafian follicles develop.
- Ovulation: The process by which a mature Graafian follicle releases its oocyte.
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): A hormone that stimulates the growth and maturation of Graafian follicles.
- Luteinizing hormone (LH): A hormone that triggers ovulation and the subsequent transformation of the Graafian follicle into the corpus luteum.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Graafian follicle
- Wikipedia's article - Graafian follicle
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