{"paper_id":"9c73465e-d13a-4a31-bcb9-87a82d167db1","body_text":"Abstract\nThe ovary is an unique organ which fulfils a plethora of physiological functions ranging from its well-recognized roles in steroid hormone biosynthesis, oocyte production and the support of early pregnancy through to its rather less well-known involvement in the regulation of growth, behaviour and immune function in response to an array of endogenous and environmental cues. While multiple cytokine-mediated interactions between the granulosa/theca cell compartments and the oocyte of developing follicles are central to the coordination of ovarian cyclicity, its systemic effects are instead attributable to exquisitely well-honed interactions between ovarian follicles, the hypothalamus and pituitary implicating an array of peptide and steroid hormones. During the follicular phase, primordial follicles are called upon to initiate a process of follicular development which culminates in ovulation. However, the release of an oocyte belies the fact that the postovulatory follicle has yet another role to play in the luteal phase. Therein, it adopts a new keystone position in supporting the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy through its production of progesterone. Once the ovary has exhausted its reserve of follicles throughout reproductive life, many of its functions are lost as women enter the menopause. This Chapter aims to explore the ovary’s developmental origins and functional roles to highlight the complexity of this remarkable product of reproductive evolution.\nAccess this chapter\nTax calculation will be finalised at checkout\nPurchases are for personal use only\nSimilar content being viewed by others\nNotes\n- 1.\nNote: GC-derived inhibins sensitize TCs to LH, enhancing androgen production/estrogen synthesis. 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Essentials of Diagnostic Gynecological Pathology. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-2942-4_1\nDownload citation\nDOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-2942-4_1\nPublished:\nPublisher Name: Springer, London\nPrint ISBN: 978-1-4471-2941-7\nOnline ISBN: 978-1-4471-2942-4\neBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)","source_license":"CC0","license_restricted":false}