Question

Explain the development of a secondary oocyte (ovum) in a human female from the embryonic stage upto its ovulation. Name the hormones involved in this process.

Answer 1

The ovum (egg) is formed by the process of oogenesis.

1. It starts during embryonic growth with millions of gamete mother cells (oogonia) forming in the foetal ovary.
   
2. These cells undergo meiosis, but get temporarily arrested at the prophase and are called primary oocytes.
   
3. Before reaching puberty, a large number of primary oocytes degenerate and the remaining ones get surrounded by layers of granulosa cells and new theca and are called secondary follicles.
   
4. The secondary follicles are then converted into tertiary follicles that have a fluid-filled cavity called the antrum.
   
5. At this stage, the primary oocyte present within the tertiary follicle completes meiosis, which results in the formation of haploid secondary oocyte and a tiny polar body.
   
6. This tertiary follicle further changes into the Graafian follicle.
   
7. The secondary oocyte is surrounded by the zona pellucida. Then the Graafian follicle ruptures to release the ovum by ovulation.
   

The main hormones involved are the estrogen, progesterone and follicle-stimulating hormones.