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Published on: May 19, 2022
Granulosa cell expression of basal lamina matrices: Call-Exner bodies and focimatrix
H F Irving-Rodgers1, R J Rodgers
1Research Centre for Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
Abstract:
A Call-Exner body appears as a rosette of granulosa cells radially disposed (polarized) around an aggregate of extracellular matrix. The function of these bodies is unknown. A newly described matrix, focimatrix, also develops as aggregates of basal lamina-like material between granulosa cells. It appears much later in follicular development, and in a far greater amount than Call-Exner bodies. Its possible role is to reduce the polarity of epithelial granulosa cells allowing them to develop into non-polarized mesenchymal luteal cells upon ovulation of the follicle. Call-Exner bodies may arise from early and isolated expression of focimatrix.
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