Biochemical changes in lipids during follicular growth and corpora lutea formation and regression in rat ovary

A biochemical study has been made on quantitative and qualitative changes in lipids of small (less than 300 microns), medium (300 to 550 microns) and large (less than 550 microns) follicles and in the fully developed and regressing corpora lutea. The total lipid content increased in the growing follicles and corpora lutea. Phospholipids formed the major component of total lipids in small sized follicles and developed corpus luteum. The cholesterol amount increased with the growth of follicles but decreased in the developed and regressing corpora lutea. Glycerides were the main fraction of total lipids in regressing corpora lutea. Free fatty acids were present in minor quantities in the growing follicles and corpora lutea. The physiological significance of these lipid changes is discussed.