Human Reproduction, Vol 12, 2741-2747, Copyright © 1997 by Oxford University Press
MA Gore, PL Nayudu and V Vlaisavljevic
This study provides the first report of local suppression of follicle
growth in vivo by the dominant follicle in humans. Analyses were focused on
antral follicles > or =6 mm in diameter, classified as dominant
(ovulatory) and challenger (large, non-ovulatory) follicles. We examined
antral follicle characteristics, interactions and location in the ovary in
the follicular phase of natural, ovulatory cycles in humans. Individual
antral follicles (> or =2 mm) were identified and monitored using a
system, developed by the authors, incorporating mapping and computer
modelling from ultrasound imaging of the ovary. Results showed that antral
follicle development was not restricted to a particular location in the
ovary. The apparent randomization of location may provide a developmental
advantage for follicles. The population of challenger follicles peaked at
mid follicular phase, suggesting a period when the ovarian environment was
supportive of larger antral follicle development. As ovulation date
approached, however, challenger follicles did not attain the visible
characteristics of dominance: mid-level echogenicity, large size, smooth
antral wall, round shape. Furthermore, dominant follicles subsequently
appeared to reduce the number of neighbouring challenger follicles. The
results strongly suggest that a paracrine secretion of the dominant
follicle was the source of this localized effect. This process may provide
increased nutrient level and space at a critical growth stage for dominant
follicles.
ARTICLES
Attaining dominance in vivo: distinguishing dominant from challenger follicles in humans
Dept of Reproductive Biology, German Primate Centre, Gottingen.
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