Ovarian Follicle
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.
Year introduced: 1999
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Subheadings:
Tree Number(s): A05.360.319.114.630.535, A06.300.312.497.535
MeSH Unique ID: D006080
Entry Terms:
- Follicle, Ovarian
- Follicles, Ovarian
- Ovarian Follicles
- Graafian Follicle
- Follicle, Graafian
- Follicles, Graafian
- Graafian Follicles
- Atretic Follicle
- Atretic Follicles
- Follicle, Atretic
- Follicles, Atretic
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