Abstract
The genetic, endocrine, and metabolic mechanisms underlying female reproduction are numerous and sophisticated, displaying complex functional evolution throughout a woman's lifetime. This vital course may be systematized in three subsequent stages: prenatal development of ovaries and germ cells up until in utero arrest of follicular growth and the ensuing interim suspension of gonadal function; onset of reproductive maturity through puberty, with reinitiation of both gonadal and adrenal activity; and adult functionality of the ovarian cycle which permits ovulation, a key event in female fertility, and dictates concurrent modifications in the endometrium and other ovarian hormone-sensitive tissues. Indeed, the ultimate goal of this physiologic progression is to achieve ovulation and offer an adequate environment for the installation of gestation, the consummation of female fertility. Strict regulation of these processes is important, as disruptions at any point in this evolution may equate a myriad of endocrine-metabolic disturbances for women and adverse consequences on offspring both during pregnancy and postpartum. This review offers a summary of pivotal aspects concerning the physiologic course of female reproductive function.
Highlights
The phenomenon of human reproduction has awakened great interest
The ovary represents an essential structural support for the development of primordial germ cells (PGC) throughout their evolution [3]. Once they have matured into primordial follicles, a stage reached before birth, and once the subject has reached puberty, folliculogenesis begins, a series of cellular changes necessary for maturation and preparation for a second wave of structural and functional modifications inherent to the ovarian cycle, which in turn finalizes with the crucial event in female fertility: ovulation [4]
Beyond the physical and mental implications in women [8], these alterations may reflect on the ulterior health of their potential offspring [9]. Due to this profound impact in female well-being and their progeny, this review aims to describe the physiological and molecular phenomena implicated in female fertility
Summary
The phenomenon of human reproduction has awakened great interest. One of its first scientific descriptions, authored by Hippocrates, dates back to the fifth century BC, suggesting generation of new beings to stem from the union of the male’s ejaculate and the female’s menstrual bleeding. The ovary represents an essential structural support for the development of PGC throughout their evolution [3] Once they have matured into primordial follicles, a stage reached before birth, and once the subject has reached puberty, folliculogenesis begins, a series of cellular changes necessary for maturation and preparation for a second wave of structural and functional modifications inherent to the ovarian cycle, which in turn finalizes with the crucial event in female fertility: ovulation [4]. In ensemble, these processes permit generation of new life, reproduction. LH: luteinizing hormones; FSH: Follicle-Stimulating Hormone; DHEAS: dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. aBordini and Rosenfield [91]. bEllis and Nicolson [228]. cBandini et al [229]. dYuksel et al [230]. eZumbado et al [10]
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