OOGENESIS IN MAMMALS
Oogenesis is the process by which female germ cells (oogonia) undergo
a series of cell divisions and differentiations to produce mature eggs (ova or
oocytes). This complex process takes place in the ovaries of mammals and is
crucial for reproductive success. Oogenesis involves several stages, from the
development of primordial germ cells to the formation of mature eggs ready for
fertilization. Here is an overview of the key stages of oogenesis in mammals:
1. Formation of Primordial Germ Cells (PGCs):
- Occurs
during early embryonic development.
- PGCs arise
from a subset of cells in the embryonic epiblast.
- Migrate to
the genital ridge and undergo mitotic divisions.
2. Differentiation into Oogonia:
- PGCs
differentiate into oogonia.
- Oogonia
undergo mitotic divisions to increase their numbers.
3. Formation of Primordial Follicles:
- Oogonia
develop into primary oocytes.
- Surrounding somatic
cells (pre-granulosa cells) form a single layer around the oocyte,
creating primordial follicles.
4. Meiotic Arrest:
- Primary
oocytes undergo DNA replication (S phase) but arrest in prophase I of
meiosis.
- This meiotic
arrest occurs during fetal development.
5. Primordial Follicle Activation:
- At puberty,
a pool of primordial follicles is activated.
- One or a few
primordial follicles develop into primary follicles.
6. Primary and Secondary Follicle Development:
- Primary
Follicle:
- The primary
oocyte within the primary follicle is surrounded by a single layer of
granulosa cells.
- Theca cells
begin to differentiate in the surrounding stroma.
- Secondary
Follicle:
- Granulosa
cells proliferate, forming multiple layers.
- An antrum
(fluid-filled cavity) develops within the follicle.
7. Meiosis Resumes:
- In response
to hormonal signals, the primary oocyte within the secondary follicle
completes meiosis I.
- This results
in the formation of a secondary oocyte and a polar body.
8. Ovulation:
- The mature
secondary oocyte is released from the ovary during ovulation.
- The follicle
ruptures, releasing the secondary oocyte surrounded by the corona radiata.
9. Meiosis II and Fertilization:
- If
fertilization occurs, the secondary oocyte completes meiosis II, resulting
in a mature ovum and another polar body.
- The sperm
penetrates the egg, and fertilization takes place.
10. Formation of the Corpus Luteum:
- The
remaining follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, secreting
progesterone to prepare the uterus for pregnancy.
11. Corpus Luteum Regression:
- If
fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum regresses, leading to the
shedding of the uterine lining during menstruation.
The process of oogenesis is highly regulated and involves intricate
interactions between the oocyte and surrounding somatic cells. It ensures the
production of mature eggs with the potential for fertilization and the
initiation of embryonic development. Oogenesis is a dynamic and essential
component of the female reproductive system.