BACKGROUND In a growth phase occurring during most of folliculogenesis, the oocyte
produces and accumulates molecules and organelles that are fundamental for the …

encompassed by follicular cells but not on follicular cell monolayer, unless removal of the
zona allows coupling (Buccione et al., 1987). FSH or estradiol does not seem beneficial …

The efficacy of follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and
dibutyryl cGMP (dbcGMP) as inducers of germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) in cumulus …

Interactions between the cumulus-oophorus and the oocyte have been implicated in the
regulation of meiotic maturation. Quantitative analysis of freeze-fractured rat cumulus-oocyte …

The effects of glucose and cumulus cells on oocyte ATP levels and germinal vesicle
breakdown (GVB) in isolated mouse oocytes have been examined. Oocyte-cumulus cell …

It is generally accepted that cyclic nucleotides are key signaling molecules in the control of
oocyte meiotic resumption. Given the role of phosphodiesterases (PDEs) in cyclic nucleotide …

The concentrations of hypoxanthine and adenosine in ovarian follicular fluid were estimated,
using high-performance liquid chromatography, for three groups of mice: 1) pregnant mare's …

The intracellular levels of cAMP play a critical role in the meiotic arrest of mammalian
oocytes. However, it is debated whether this second messenger is produced endogenously …

During the growth of the mammalian ovarian follicle, gonadotropin stimulation initiates a
cascade of events including steroidogenesis and resumption of oocyte meiosis, leading to …

Overview M ANY excellent reviews have appeared that summarize follicular development
from the perspective of gonadotropin-induced follicular differentiation and steroid secretion …