Question

Why do polar bodies degenerate?

Answer 1

Polar bodies:

1. The polar body is the haploid cell produced alongside the ovum during oogenesis in order to enclose excess DNA.
2. They are non-functional small cells that usually die due to apoptosis.
3. 2-3 polar bodies are formed during oogenesis where one polar body is generated during meiosis-I whereas the remaining polar bodies are produced as a result of meiosis-II.
4. The first polar body is formed when the primary oocyte develops into the secondary oocyte. This polar body divides and generates two polar bodies.
5. Another polar body is formed when the secondary oocyte transforms into a mature ovum. Thus, a total of three polar bodies are formed during oogenesis.
6. They degenerate as they contain very less cytoplasmic content and lack nutrients required for survival.
7. They are discarded by the process of apoptosis.