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Updated: May 15, 2026
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Defining the Program of Maternal mRNA Translation during In vitro Maturation using a Single Oocyte Reporter Assay
Published on: June 16, 2021
Signaling modalities during oogenesis in mammals
Lynda K McGinnis1, S Darlene Limback, David F Albertini
1Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri, USA.
Current Topics in Developmental Biology
|January 5, 2013
Summary
Interactions between oocytes and granulosa cells are crucial for mammalian oogenesis. Multiple signaling pathways coordinate oocyte development, gene expression, and fertilization readiness.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Oogenesis involves intricate interactions between the female germ line and ovarian somatic (granulosa) cells.
- These interactions are essential for oocyte growth, maturation, and preparation for fertilization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multiple modalities of intercellular signaling between oocytes and granulosa cells during mammalian oogenesis.
- To understand how these signaling pathways regulate oocyte gene expression, metabolism, spatial patterning, and cell cycle progression.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental approaches over the past 15 years.
- Analysis of five key modalities of intercellular signaling in oogenesis.
Main Results:
- Identified five essential and sometimes overlapping modalities of oocyte-granulosa cell signaling.
- Demonstrated that combinations of signaling modalities control ovulation and maturation.
- Highlighted the role of positive and negative feedback loops in coordinating oogenesis and folliculogenesis.
Conclusions:
- Oocyte-granulosa cell communication is vital for successful oogenesis and reproductive outcomes.
- Coordinated signaling networks, including feedback loops, ensure proper oocyte development and readiness for fertilization.
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