GRAAFIAN FOLLICLES Meaning and
Definition
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Graafian follicles, also known as mature ovarian follicles or tertiary follicles, are specialized structures found in the ovaries of female mammals. These follicles play a crucial role in the reproductive system and are responsible for the maturation and release of eggs during the menstrual cycle.
Within the ovaries, numerous immature follicles develop and grow under the influence of hormones. However, only one dominant follicle reaches maturity and becomes a Graafian follicle. This process usually occurs around the 14th day of a 28-day menstrual cycle.
The Graafian follicle consists of several layers. The outermost layer is composed of granulosa cells, which support the development of the egg or oocyte. These cells produce estrogen, a hormone that stimulates the thickening of the uterine lining and prepares it for possible fertilization.
As the Graafian follicle continues to mature, a fluid-filled cavity called an antrum forms within it. This antrum provides nourishment to the oocyte and promotes its growth. Eventually, the follicle reaches its maximum size and protrudes from the ovary's surface.
Upon ovulation, the Graafian follicle ruptures, releasing the mature egg. This process allows the egg to be transported into the fallopian tube, where it may be fertilized by sperm. If fertilization does not occur, the remaining structure develops into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone to support the early stages of pregnancy.
Overall, Graafian follicles are vital components of the female reproductive system, facilitating the production and release of eggs in preparation for potential conception.
Common Misspellings for GRAAFIAN FOLLICLES
- fraafian follicles
- vraafian follicles
- braafian follicles
- hraafian follicles
- yraafian follicles
- traafian follicles
- geaafian follicles
- gdaafian follicles
- gfaafian follicles
- gtaafian follicles
- g5aafian follicles
- g4aafian follicles
- grzafian follicles
- grsafian follicles
- grwafian follicles
- grqafian follicles
- grazfian follicles
- grasfian follicles
- grawfian follicles
- graqfian follicles
Etymology of GRAAFIAN FOLLICLES
The term "Graafian follicles" is named after Regnier de Graaf, a Dutch physician and anatomist who discovered and extensively studied these ovarian follicles in the 17th century. He observed that these structures contained fluid-filled sacs, which he called "vesicles of de Graaf". Over time, these vesicles became known as Graafian follicles in his honor.
