Bioscientifica Proceedings

The physical interface between the female germ line and enveloping somatic cells is dynamically modified throughout the course of folliculo-genesis. How selective pathways for communication between the oocyte and granulosa cell are established and regulated remains to be determined, but insights into the structural basis for this communication are emerging. This review summarizes the available evidence that supports the notion that the integration of oogenesis with folliculoge...

Oocytes secrete factors that control cumulus and granulosa functions, including cumulus expansion and steroid hormone production. Some members of the transforming growth factor ß (TGFß) superfamily influence these activities, yet it is still not determined conclusively whether any of these superfamily members are the previously reported oocyte-secreted factors. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of TGFß1 and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF-9) ...

Reproductive function is an integrated process encompassing both extraovarian signals, such as gonadotrophins, and intrafollicular factors, such as locally produced growth factors. Initiation of primordial follicle growth and the early stages of folliculogenesis can occur without gonadotrophins. However, in vivo and in vitro studies indicate that FSH may stimulate the rate of preantral follicle growth and that it can take only 3 months for a primordial follic...

The adult testis has two essential functions, namely the synthesis and secretion of the steroid hormone testosterone and the production of mature spermatozoa. Germ cells undergo mitosis, meiosis and condensation (spermiation) in close association with Sertoli cells and in defined associations with each other within the seminiferous epithelium. Normal spermatogenesis and fertility are dependent upon paracrine interactions between the somatic cells (Sertoli, Leydig and peritubul...