Ovulation: A molecular view

Abstract

Ovulation is a complex process that after initiation by LH involves cascades of several pathways that interact within cell types and between cell compartments. Major functions of these pathways are to promote permeability and increased blood flow, to accelerate ECM remodelling leading to degradation of the follicular apex and restructuring of the cystic follicle into a solid corpus luteum, to induce expansion within the cumulus granulosa cells, to modify steroidogenesis within granulosa and theca cells toward secretion of progesterone, and to maintain a positive intra-follicular pressure so the follicular wall eventually ruptures and that the cumulus-enclosed oocyte is expelled. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2010.