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Related Concept Videos

Ovaries01:26

Ovaries

594
The ovaries are roughly the size of almonds and measure approximately 2 to 3 centimeters in length. These paired structures are situated within the pelvic region and are anchored by the mesovarium—a peritoneal extension that also connects them to the wider structure of the broad ligament. The support system extends to the suspensory ligament, housing blood and lymphatic vessels. In addition, the ovarian ligament tethers the ovaries to the uterus.
On the ovarian surface, a layer of...
594
Ovarian Cycle01:27

Ovarian Cycle

879
The menstrual cycle includes a critical component known as the ovarian cycle, which undergoes two main phases each month—the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase is variable and averaging around 14 days. Ovulation, triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), marks the transition between the two phases. The second phase, the luteal phase, is relatively consistent, lasting approximately 14 days, and is marked by the activity of the corpus luteum. While a cycle...
879
Uterine Tubes01:16

Uterine Tubes

417
The uterine or fallopian tubes function as the conduit through which oocytes travel from the ovaries to the uterus. Each fallopian tube measures approximately 10 to 13 cm long and is anatomically divided into the infundibulum, ampulla, isthmus, and interstitial part (or intramural segment). The infundibulum is characterized by its funnel shape and features extensions called fimbriae which reach towards the peritoneal cavity. These fimbriae play a critical role during ovulation as they extend...
417
Histology of the Uterus01:19

Histology of the Uterus

819
The uterine wall consists of three histological layers: the perimetrium, myometrium, and endometrium. The outermost perimetrium is a thin, serous membrane connected with the broad ligament on the sides, which helps anchor the uterus in the pelvic cavity. The thickest layer, myometrium, is mainly made up of smooth muscle tissue bundles. Its contractions are vital in facilitating the expulsion of the uterine lining, fetus, and placenta during menstruation and childbirth.
The endometrium is the...
819
Uterus and Cervix01:18

Uterus and Cervix

762
The uterus, commonly called the womb, is a vital reproductive organ in females designed to provide a nurturing environment for the implantation and growth of an embryo. It is shaped like a hollow pear and positioned between the urinary bladder and the rectum. The uterus's structure allows it to support and protect a developing fetus throughout pregnancy.
The uterus is securely anchored within the pelvic cavity by paired broad ligaments on either side. It is further stabilized by three pairs...
762
Hormonal Control of the Ovarian Cycle01:30

Hormonal Control of the Ovarian Cycle

363
The ovarian cycle is meticulously regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This cycle orchestrates the release of a mature oocyte, essential for reproduction.
Before puberty, the hypothalamus releases GnRH in a low frequency, low amplitude pulsatile manner. This along with the immature hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis activity, results in low estrogen levels and the absence of a fully functional ovarian cycle.  At puberty, GnRH secretion increases in both frequency and...
363

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 21, 2025

Surgical Techniques to Optimize Ovarian Reserve during Laparoscopic Cystectomy for Ovarian Endometrioma
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Surgical Techniques to Optimize Ovarian Reserve during Laparoscopic Cystectomy for Ovarian Endometrioma

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Revisiting the rete ovarii.

Yan Zhang1, Hua Zhang1

  • 1State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.

Elife
|March 19, 2025
PubMed
Summary

The rete ovarii, previously overlooked, may significantly influence ovarian physiology. This structure could play a crucial role in follicular dynamics and overall reproductive health.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Biology
  • Ovarian Physiology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • The rete ovarii, a network of tubules within the ovary, has historically been considered vestigial or functionally insignificant in mammalian ovarian physiology.
  • Emerging evidence suggests a potential role for the rete ovarii beyond its previously understood limited function.

Discussion:

  • The rete ovarii's anatomical position and cellular composition suggest it may interact with ovarian follicles and the surrounding microenvironment.
  • Investigating the rete ovarii's cellular signaling pathways and potential paracrine functions is crucial for understanding its contribution to ovarian function.

Key Insights:

  • The rete ovarii may actively participate in regulating follicular development and atresia.
  • This structure could influence key aspects of female reproductive health, including ovulation and hormone production.
Keywords:
SNARE complexcell biologydevelopmental biologyfluid secretionmouseovaryproteomicsrete ovarii

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Orthotopic Ovarian Transplantation Procedures to Investigate the Life- and Health-span Influence of Ovarian Senescence in Female Mice
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Last Updated: May 21, 2025

Surgical Techniques to Optimize Ovarian Reserve during Laparoscopic Cystectomy for Ovarian Endometrioma
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Outlook:

  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which the rete ovarii impacts follicular dynamics.
  • Understanding the rete ovarii's role could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for infertility and other reproductive disorders.