Physiology of the Graafian Follicle and Ovulation
Ovulation is a key event in the female mammalian reproductive cycle, yet the process of ovulation itself remains poorly understood. Much of our knowledge comes from studies of laboratory rodents or domestic farm animals, with more recent human studies focusing on problems of fertility or in vitro fertilization. This volume integrates the vast available literature from both animal and human systems to provide a comprehensive summary highlighting the key role played by the oocytes in all stages of ovulation.
- Integrates findings from animal and human studies
- Condenses the vast published literature into a succinct account
- Extensively illustrated, including five colour plates
Reviews & endorsements
"...a superb review of more than 100 years of descriptive, experimental, and clinical literature...an essential book for biological and medical libraries and for anyone interested in the physiology of reproduction." American Journal of Human Biology
Product details
June 2011Paperback
9780521205863
424 pages
229 × 152 × 22 mm
0.56kg
Available
Table of Contents
- Preface
- Acknowledgements
- 1. Mammalian ovaries, Graafian follicles and oocytes: selected historical landmarks
- 2. Formation and structure of ovaries: elaboration of follicular compartments
- 3. Physiology of the ovaries and maturing Graafian follicles
- 4. Ovarian follicular-antral fluid
- 5. Endocrine potential and function of a Graafian follicle
- 6. Follicular recruitment and development: selection - or atresia
- 7. Follicular responses to the pre-ovulatory surge of gonadotrophic hormones
- 8. The process of ovulation and shedding of an oocyte
- 9. Post-ovulatory fate of follicle and oocyte: contributions of somatic cells and follicular fluid
- 10. Failure of ovulation: status of the gonads
- 11. Induction of ovulation in women and domestic animals
- 12. Concluding thoughts and a current perspective
- Index.