Cyclic changes in ovarian morphology during the menstrual cycle in Macaca mulatta.

Abstract

AbstractTwenty‐seven mature female macaques were ovariectomized at various times during the menstrual cycle. The ovaries were sectioned serially and each vesicular follicle was measured and classified according to size and developmental state. Also noted was the presence of differentiated and undifferentiated glandular tissue.The data showed that when the corpus luteum was active the largest follicle in each animal was not less than 1 mm in diameter, and that when the corpus luteum began to degenerate follicular enlargement commenced. Most follicles became atretic when under 1 mm in diameter, except for a few in the late follicular stage. The maximal diameter for an atretic follicle was 3.1 mm and for a developing follicle 6.3 mm.Interstitial gland tissue (theca interna of atretic follicles) was noted in large amounts just before ovulation while minimal amounts were present throughout the rest of the cycle.Other glandular types occasionally seen were aberrant and accessory corpora lutea, cords of cells in the stroma and adrenal rests.