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Follicular Microenvironment

Meaning

The follicular microenvironment is the highly localized and complex biological milieu that surrounds and directly supports the developing ovarian follicle, which houses the oocyte. This environment comprises granulosa cells, theca cells, stromal cells, and a rich composition of follicular fluid containing hormones, cytokines, and growth factors. It is a critical, dynamic niche that governs the precise processes of oocyte growth, follicular selection, and steroidogenesis, fundamentally influencing reproductive and systemic endocrine function.