Follicular atresia

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Follicular Atresia

Follicular atresia (pronounced: fuh-lik-yuh-lur at-ree-zhuh) is a biological process that occurs in the ovaries of female mammals. It involves the degeneration and subsequent resorption of immature ovarian follicles.

Etymology

The term "follicular atresia" is derived from two words. "Follicular" comes from the Latin word "folliculus", which means "small bag". This refers to the ovarian follicles that are involved in the process. "Atresia" comes from the Greek word "atresia", meaning "absence of an opening". This refers to the degeneration and closure of the follicles.

Process

Follicular atresia begins when the granulosa cells and theca cells in an immature follicle die. This triggers an inflammatory response, which leads to the degeneration of the follicle. The remaining cells and fluid are then reabsorbed by the body.

Significance

Follicular atresia is a normal part of the ovarian cycle. It ensures that only the healthiest and most mature follicles are selected for ovulation. However, excessive follicular atresia can lead to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome and premature ovarian failure.

Related Terms

  • Ovarian follicle: A fluid-filled sac in the ovary that contains an immature egg, or oocyte.
  • Ovulation: The release of a mature egg from the ovary.
  • Granulosa cells: Cells that surround the oocyte in an ovarian follicle.
  • Theca cells: Cells that surround the granulosa cells in an ovarian follicle.

External links

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