The ovary: anatomy and function throughout human life.
A prerequisite to the understanding of the ovarian diseases and infertility is a thorough understanding of normal embryology and physiology of the ovary. Therefore, the objective of this review article is to provide brief and updated information on the molecular basis of the events that control gonadal development, germ cell formation, folliculogenesis, and ovulation.
Oktem
Ozgur
O
Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, New York Medical College, Munger Pavilion Room 617, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA.
Oktay
Kutluk
K
D000818:Animals; D017209:Apoptosis; D049109:Cell Proliferation; D004848:Epithelium / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D005306:Fertilization; D005854:Germ Cells / Q000166:cytology / Q000473:pathology*; D006107:Granulosa Cells / Q000166:cytology; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D009865:Oocytes / Q000378:metabolism; D010049:Ovarian Diseases / Q000473:pathology; D006080:Ovarian Follicle / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D010053:Ovary / Q000473:pathology* / Q000502:physiology*; D010060:Ovulation