Granulosa cells

Granulosa cells are a type of cell found in the ovary. They are involved in the production of sex hormones and the development of ova.

Function

Granulosa cells are part of the follicle in the ovary. They surround the developing oocyte and help it to mature. They also produce estrogen, a hormone that is important for reproduction.

Structure

Granulosa cells are cuboidal in shape and are found in multiple layers around the oocyte. They are connected to each other by gap junctions, which allow them to communicate and coordinate their functions.

Role in reproduction

During the menstrual cycle, the granulosa cells proliferate and increase in number. They produce estrogen, which stimulates the endometrium to thicken in preparation for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, the granulosa cells degenerate and are shed during menstruation.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in granulosa cells can lead to infertility. For example, mutations in the FSHR gene, which codes for a receptor on granulosa cells, can cause ovarian failure. Granulosa cell tumors, a type of ovarian cancer, are also associated with abnormalities in these cells.

See also

• Ovary
• Oocyte
• Follicle
• Estrogen
• Menstrual cycle
• Infertility
• Ovarian cancer

Granulosa cells Resources
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