Oogenesis and Folliculogenesis

The ovary is a dynamic structure with two main functions. First, the ovary is responsible for producing hormones that control and direct the female reproductive system. Second, it is in the ovary that folliculogenesis and oogenesis take place. Such processes begin in prenatal life and comprise the formation, growth, and maturation of the follicular and female gamete, culminating in the release of a mature oocyte for fertilization. However, only 0.1% of the follicles reach the stage known as pre-ovulatory and are fertilized, thus underutilizing the female reproductive potential. Here we review recent advances in oogenesis and folliculogenesis. First, we review mechanisms of formation, growth, and development of follicles. We discuss the influence of the antral follicle count in the reproductive performance in cattle. Finally, we present recent hypotheses about follicular renewal and new insights on epigenetic modifications during folliculogenesis.