Role of apoptosis-related factors in follicular atresia

Abstract

Follicular atresia is the term used for the fate of follicles which undergo degenerative changes before rupturing during ovulation. Recent studies suggest that granulosa cell apoptosis play a major role in follicular atresia. The factors which lead the cell to apoptosis and which protect the cell death, still remain complicated and more studies are needed to elucidate the whole process. Here in this review, we aimed to simplify the factors and mechanisms taking place in granulosa cell apoptosis, to make the process more understandable.