GRANULOSA CELL Meaning and
Definition
-
A granulosa cell refers to a specialized type of cell found within the ovarian follicles of female mammals, particularly in the ovaries. These cells play a vital role in the development and maturation of eggs, as well as in the production and secretion of estrogen hormones. Granulosa cells are considered to be part of the reproductive endocrine system and are primarily involved in the regulation and maintenance of female fertility.
Structurally, granulosa cells are characterized by a granular appearance, which is the basis for their name. These small, round or cuboidal-shaped cells are tightly packed within the follicles and are responsible for providing support and nourishment to the developing egg. Additionally, granulosa cells are involved in the production of the fluid-filled cavity known as the follicular antrum, which surrounds the egg and is essential for its growth and protection.
Functionally, granulosa cells are crucial for the secretion of estrogen hormones, particularly estradiol, which plays a pivotal role in various reproductive processes. These include the development of secondary sexual characteristics, regulation of the menstrual cycle, and preparation of the uterine lining for potential implantation of a fertilized egg. Granulosa cells achieve this by converting androgens, such as testosterone, into estrogens through a process called aromatization.
Overall, granulosa cells serve as critical components of the ovarian follicles and contribute to the complex processes involved in the female reproductive system. Their multifaceted roles make them essential for the successful production and maturation of eggs, as well as the proper functioning of the female reproductive system as a whole.
Common Misspellings for GRANULOSA CELL
- franulosa cell
- vranulosa cell
- branulosa cell
- hranulosa cell
- yranulosa cell
- tranulosa cell
- geanulosa cell
- gdanulosa cell
- gfanulosa cell
- gtanulosa cell
- g5anulosa cell
- g4anulosa cell
- grznulosa cell
- grsnulosa cell
- grwnulosa cell
- grqnulosa cell
- grabulosa cell
- gramulosa cell
- grajulosa cell
- grahulosa cell
Etymology of GRANULOSA CELL
The term "granulosa cell" is derived from the Latin word "granum", meaning "grain" or "seed", and the Latin word "cellula", which refers to "a small hollow".
In the context of biology, granulosa cells are found in the ovary and are responsible for producing estrogen. These cells were initially named based on their appearance under a microscope, which exhibited numerous small granules or particles. The term "granulosa" was coined to describe these grain-like structures in the cells.
The word "cell" is a common suffix used to describe individual units of living organisms, derived from the Latin word "cellula". Therefore, the combination of "granulosa" and "cell" is used to specifically refer to the particular type of cells found in the ovary with granules or particles within them.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
