Folliculogenesis

Folliculogenesis is the complex biological process of maturation of the ovarian follicle, a highly regulated sequence of events involving the growth and differentiation of somatic cells and the oocyte [1]. It begins with the recruitment of primordial follicles from a resting pool and progresses through primary, secondary, and antral stages, culminating in ovulation or atresia [2]. This process is primarily driven by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, specifically through the actions of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) on their respective receptors [1][3]. Dysregulation of folliculogenesis is a central feature in reproductive disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and primary ovarian insufficiency [4]. While folliculogenesis itself is a physiological process rather than a single molecular target, many therapeutic interventions aim to modulate this pathway to treat infertility or provide contraception [5].

Other names

Ovarian follicle developmentFollicular maturationOvarian folliculogenesis

Modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis via gonadotropin receptor agonism or antagonism, or through the inhibition of aromatase and estrogen receptors to regulate follicle recruitment, growth, and ovulation.