Ovary
| Definition: |
The reproductive organ (GONADS) in female animals. In vertebrates, the ovary contains two functional parts: the OVARIAN FOLLICLE for the production of female germ cells (OOGENESIS); and the endocrine cells (GRANULOSA CELLS, THECA CELLS, and LUTEAL CELLS) for the production of ESTROGENS and PROGESTERONE. |
| Notes: |
OVARY, PLANT is also available; /surg permitted but is probably OVARIECTOMY; /abnorm: agenesis or dysgenesis: coord OVARY /abnorm (IM) with GONADAL DYSGENESIS (IM); /cytol: consider also THECA CELLS; inflammation = OOPHORITIS; polycystic ovary, sclerocyst |
Ovary Categories.
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Corpus Luteum - The yellow body derived from the ruptured OVARIAN FOLLICLE after OVULATION. The process of corpus luteum formation, LUTEINIZATION, is regulated by LUTEINIZING HORMONE. |
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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. |
Ovary Definitions and Terms
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