Talk:Uterus Development

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http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16272225



Formation of Fallopian tubal fluid: role of a neglected epithelium. Leese HJ, Tay JI, Reischl J, Downing SJ. Reproduction. 2001 Mar;121(3):339-46. Review. PMID: 11226059


Physiology of upward transport in the human female genital tract. Zervomanolakis I, Ott HW, Hadziomerovic D, Mattle V, Seeber BE, Virgolini I, Heute D, Kissler S, Leyendecker G, Wildt L. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2007 Apr;1101:1-20. Epub 2007 Apr 7. PMID: 17416925 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


The uterus and fallopian tubes represent a functionally united peristaltic pump under the endocrine control of ipsilateral ovary. We have examined this function by using hysterosalpingoscintigraphy (HSS), recording of intrauterine pressure, electrohysterography, and Doppler sonography of the fallopian tubes. An uptake of labeled particles into the uterus was observed during the follicular and luteal phases of the cycle after application into the vagina. Transport into the oviducts, however, could only be demonstrated during the follicular phase. Furthermore, the predominant transport was into the tube ipsilateral to the ovary containing the dominant follicle. The pregnancy rate following spontaneous intercourse or insemination was higher in those women in whom ipsilateral transport could be demonstrated. The amount of material transported to the ipsilateral tube was increased after oxytocin administration, as demonstrated by radionuclide imaging and by Doppler sonography following instillation of ultrasound contrast medium. An increase in the basal tone and amplitude of contractions was observed after oxytocin administration. These results support the idea that the uterus and fallopian tubes act as a peristaltic pump, which increases transport of sperm into the oviduct ipsilateral to the ovary bearing the dominant follicle. Oxytocin appears to play a critical role in this peristaltic pump. A failure of the peristaltic mechanism is possibly responsible for infertility. We propose the term tubal transport disorder (TTD) as a nosological entity. Results from HSS could be a useful adjunct for choosing treatment modalities in patients with patent fallopian tubes suffering from infertility. These patients may be better served with in vitro fertilization (IVF).



Role of the oviduct in sperm capacitation. Rodriguez-Martinez H. Theriogenology. 2007 Sep 1;68 Suppl 1:S138-46. Epub 2007 Apr 23. Review. PMID: 17452049 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Following insemination of spermatozoa pre-ovulation, the mammalian oviduct ensures, by the formation of a functional sperm reservoir (SR), that suitable (low) numbers of viable and potentially fertile spermatozoa are available for fertilization at the ampullary isthmic junction (AIJ). As ovulation approaches, a proportion of the SR-stored spermatozoa is continuously distributed towards the AIJ and individually activated leading to step-wise capacitation and the attainment of hyperactivated motility. This paper reviews in vivo changes in the intra-luminal milieu of the oviduct of pigs and cows, in particular the SR and the AIJ which relate to the modulation of sperm capacitation around spontaneous ovulation. In vivo, most viable spermatozoa in the pre-ovulatory SR are uncapacitated. Capacitation rates significantly increase after ovulation, apparently not massively but concurrent with the individual, continuous sperm dislocation from the SR. Bicarbonate, whose levels differ between the SR and the AIJ, appears as the common primary effector of the membrane destabilizing changes that encompasses the first stages of capacitation. Sperm activation can be delayed or even reversed by co-incubation with membrane proteins of the tubal lining, isthmic fluid or specific tubal glycosaminoglycans, such as hyaluronan. Although the pattern of response to in vitro induction of sperm activation - capacitation in particular - is similar for all spermatozoa, the capacity and speed of the response is very individual. Such diversity in responsiveness among spermatozoa insures full sperm viability before ovulation and the presence of spermatozoa at different stages of capacitation at the AIJ, thus maximizing the chances of normal fertilization.


New aspects of gamete transport, fertilization, and embryonic development in the oviduct gained by means of live cell imaging. Kölle S, Reese S, Kummer W. Theriogenology. 2010 Apr 1;73(6):786-95. Epub 2010 Jan 18. Review. PMID: 20080295 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 2. Ciliary transport, gamete interaction, and effects of the early embryo in the oviduct: ex vivo analyses using a new digital videomicroscopic system in the cow. Kölle S, Dubielzig S, Reese S, Wehrend A, König P, Kummer W. Biol Reprod. 2009 Aug;81(2):267-74. Epub 2009 Mar 18. PMID: 19299315 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 3. [Role of the female environment in sperm capacitation] Patrat C, Serres C. Gynecol Obstet Fertil. 2009 Jun;37(6):536-9. Epub 2009 May 20. French. PMID: 19467904 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 4. Contributions to myometrium study in uterine-tubal junction. Neamţu MC, Neamţu RL, Avramescu ET, Vrabete M, Călina LM, Mîndrilă I. Rom J Morphol Embryol. 2009;50(4):675-81. PMID: 19942965 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]Free Article Related citations 5. Fertilization and early embryonic development in the porcine fallopian tube. Brüssow KP, Rátky J, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Reprod Domest Anim. 2008 Jul;43 Suppl 2:245-51. Review. PMID: 18638131 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 6. Regulation of sperm storage and movement in the mammalian oviduct. Suarez SS. Int J Dev Biol. 2008;52(5-6):455-62. Review. PMID: 18649258 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]Free Article Related citations

9. Sperm binding glycoprotein is differentially present surrounding the lumen of isthmus and ampulla of the pig's oviduct. Pérez FA, Roma SM, Cabada MO, Marini PE. Anat Embryol (Berl). 2006 Nov;211(6):619-24. Epub 2006 Sep 1. PMID: 16947066 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 10. Relationship between the fertile period and sperm transport in the bitch. England GC, Burgess CM, Freeman SL, Smith SC, Pacey AA. Theriogenology. 2006 Oct;66(6-7):1410-8. Epub 2006 Mar 15. Review. PMID: 16540160 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 11. Gamete/embryo - oviduct interactions: implications on in vitro culture. Lee KF, Yeung WS. Hum Fertil (Camb). 2006 Sep;9(3):137-43. Review. PMID: 17008265 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 12. Oviductal motile response to penile cervical buffeting. Shafik A, Shafik I, El Sibai O, Shafik AA. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2006 Jan;273(4):216-20. Epub 2005 Sep 16. PMID: 16167158 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7004702

PIP: The anatomy and physiology of the human fallopian tube are described and discussed; then, these facts are correlated with clinical considerations as they relate to tubal factor infertility. Anatomically the human oviduct is a tubular, seromuscular organ attached distally to the ovary and proximally to the lateral aspect of the uterine fundus. Its length averages 11-12 cm. The oviduct can be divided into 4 main segments: 1) the infundibulum, whose terminal end contains the tubal ostium; 2) the ampullary region; 3) the isthmic portion; and 4) the intramural or interstitial portion, which is contained in the wall of the uterus. 4 electron micrographs illustrate these areas. Also discussed in this reveiw are the vascular analtomy, the lymphatics, and neuroanatomy of the fallopian tubes. Physiologic functions discussed in this article include the role of the fallopian tube in sperm transport, its part in sperm maintenance and capacitation, and the tube's function in ovum transport, fertilization, and embryo transport. Clinically, the role of the myosalpinx is undetermined, although it may affect tubal motility and ovum transport. The dense adrenergic innervation of the oviductal isthmus, along with the myosalpinx, suggests that innervation may be required for sphincter-like activity, although again no evidence exists for innervation being required in normal reproduction. The mucosa provides nutrients which may or may not be essential to normal reproduction, and its cilia seems uncritical in gamete transport and embryogenesis. Evidence shows that the uterotubal junction and the ampullary-isthmic junction are not necessary for conception (based on success rates of implantation procedures). Reversal of fimbriectomy is the most difficult and up to 1-cm of ampulla may be removed and resected and still maintain fertility.


Effects of transmaternal exposure to genistein in Hatano high- and low-avoidance rats. Ohta R, Shirota M, Kanazawa Y, Shindo T, Furuya M, Seki T, Ono H, Kojima K, Asai S, Watanabe G, Taya K. Exp Anim. 2009 Oct;58(5):471-9. PMID: 19897930 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]Free Article


Recurrent microdeletion at 17q12 as a cause of Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome: two case reports. Bernardini L, Gimelli S, Gervasini C, Carella M, Baban A, Frontino G, Barbano G, Divizia MT, Fedele L, Novelli A, Béna F, Lalatta F, Miozzo M, Dallapiccola B. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2009 Nov 4;4:25. PMID: 19889212 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]Free PMC ArticleFree text


Expression of nodal signalling components in cycling human endometrium and in endometrial cancer. Papageorgiou I, Nicholls PK, Wang F, Lackmann M, Makanji Y, Salamonsen LA, Robertson DM, Harrison CA. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2009 Oct 29;7:122. PMID: 19874624 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]Free PMC ArticleFree text


Stretch activates human myometrium via ERK, caldesmon and focal adhesion signaling. Li Y, Reznichenko M, Tribe RM, Hess PE, Taggart M, Kim H, DeGnore JP, Gangopadhyay S, Morgan KG. PLoS One. 2009 Oct 16;4(10):e7489. PMID: 19834610


Specific subsets of immune cells in human decidua differ between normal pregnancy and preeclampsia - a prospective observational study

http://www.rbej.com/content/7/1/132

Vagina Development

Vagina Development

  • New concepts on the development of the vagina. Shapiro E, Huang H, Wu XR. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2004;545:173-85. Review. No abstract available. PMID: 15086027
  • Revisiting old vaginal topics: conversion of the Müllerian vagina and origin of the "sinus" vagina. Cai Y. Int J Dev Biol. 2009;53(7):925-34. Review. PMID: 19598112 | IJDB
"Vaginal development has been a longstanding controversy, which hampers studies on vaginal diseases as well as cervical and uterine diseases. Most concerns center on: why is the vaginal epithelium different from the uterine epithelium; and where does the vagina originate from? It is commonly held that the rodent vagina has a dual origin: the cranial part is derived from the Mullerian duct (Mullerian vagina) and the caudal part derived from the urogenital sinus (sinus vagina). This concept was deduced from morphological observations. However, it cannot explain the difference between the Mullerian vagina and the uterus. Moreover, accumulating new data from genetic and molecular studies contradicts the urogenital sinus origin of the sinus vagina. The present review summarizes previous morphological observations and new findings from genetic and molecular studies, and addresses molecular mechanisms underlying the origin and organogenesis of the vagina in rodents. It provides evidence to show that the whole vagina is derived the Mullerian duct. BMP4 reshapes the intermediate mesoderm-derived Mullerian duct into the vaginal primordium. The latter thus exhibits different features from the uterus, including the stratified squamous epithelium and insensitivity to anti-Mullerian hormone. The sinus vagina is formed by extrinsic BMP4-mediated caudal extension of the Mullerian duct. The present review thus shows how a century of controversy over the origin and organogenesis of the vagina has been resolved. This new understanding will provide additional insight into genetic diseases and tumors of the female reproductive tract."


  • Fetal development of the female external urinary sphincter complex: an anatomical and histological study. Sebe P, Fritsch H, Oswald J, Schwentner C, Lunacek A, Bartsch G, Radmayr C. J Urol. 2005 May;173(5):1738-42; discussion 1742. PMID: 15821572


Terms

abdomen - trunk between diaphragm and pelvis.

abdominal circumference - An ultrasound measurement of Abdominal Circumference (AC) is used to determine fetal age and normal development (small/large/abnormal) parameters. Measured at the outer edge of the circumference of the body plane in which the portal vein or stomach can be visualized in a tangential section. It is one of the four typical ultrasound assessments of fetal size and age: Biparietal Diameter (BPD), Head Circumference (HC), Abdominal Circumference (AC), and Femur Length] (FL). Abdominal Circumference of less than 31 cm at 36 to 40 weeks gestation is a predictor of intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR).

AC - Acronym for Abdominal Circumference.

adenohypophysis - (anterior pituitary, pars distalis) The anterior part of the pituitary, which develops in the early embryo from a transient region on the roof of the pharynx called Rathke's pouch.

adnexa - (Latin, adnexae = appendages) Term used to describe any anatomical appendage (accessory structure, extension or outgrowth from the body). In reproductive anatomy used to describe appendages of the [U.htm#uterus uterus] "body"; ovaries, uterine tubes and uterus supporting ligaments.

adrenal gland - (suprarenal gland) The endocrine organ that anatomically sits on top of the kidneys (renal). It has two different embryonic origins, neurat crest (aderenal medulla) and mesoderm (adrenal cortex).

adventitia - Anatomical term describing the outermost connective tissue covering of any organ, vessel, or other structure not covered by a serosa. The covering is from the surrounding connective tissue and does not form an integral part of such organ or structure.

amnion - An extraembryonic membrane ectoderm and extraembryonic mesoderm in origin and forms the innermost fetal membrane, produces amniotic fluid. This fluid-filled sac initially lies above the trilaminar embryonic disc and with embryoic disc folding this sac is drawn ventrally to enclose (cover) the entire embryo, then fetus. The presence of this membrane led to the description of reptiles, bird, and mammals as amniotes.

amniotic fluid - The fluid that fills amniotic cavity totally encloses and cushions the embryo. Amniotic fluid enters both the gastrointestinal and respiratory tract following rupture of the buccopharyngeal membrane. The late fetus swallows amniotic fluid.

ampulla - Term used to describe an anatomical dilation of a tube or canal lumen. Anatomical description of the opening end of the uterine tube lying above the ovary and the enlarged initial segmeny of the semicircular canals of the inner ear vestibular system.

anastomosis - Term used to describe the connection between two tubes. Applied to describe the connection between peripheral blood vessels without an intervening capillary bed.

androgens - The male sex hormones, eg testosterone.

anterior - Anatomical term used to describe the front or ventral surface.

Anti-Mullerian Hormone - (AMH, Mullerian Inhibiting Substance, MIS) A secreted factor (transforming growth factor-beta, TGF-beta superfamily) that regulates gonadal and genital tract development. Inhibits paramesonephric (Mullerian) duct development in males. (More? OMIM - AMH)

antral follicle - (secondary follicle) Term used to describe the developmental stage of ovarian follicle development following preantral (primary) in describing the sequence (primordial, preantral, antral) of follicle development within the ovary. In humans, a number of primordial follicles will begin to develop into primary follicles, some of which will then form antral follicles (secondary), with only a single antral follicle developing into the ovulating follicle (Graafian) each menstrual cycle.

antrum - (Latin from Greek, antron = a cave, cavity; a nearly-closed cavity or bulge). Identified anatomically in many structures (ovarian follicle, bone, cardiac, gastric). In the ovary this refers to the follicular fluid-filled space within the follicle.

atresia - (Greek, a = without + tresis = perforation) Term used for anatomical closing or absence of a cavity or opening that should exist. Used as an antomical, pathological and clinical term: esophageal atresia, biliary atresia, duodenal atresia, jejunal atresia, choanal atresia, vaginal atresia, urethral atresia, pulmonary atresia, bronchial atresia, tricuspid atresia.

autosomal - The term decribing all the chromosomes that contribute to a cell's genetic material, except for the sex chromosomes X, Y.

autosomal inheritance - Some hereditary diseases are described as autosomal which means that the disease is due to a DNA error in one of the 22 pairs that are not sex chromosomes. Both boys and girls can then inherit this error. If the error is in a sex chromosome, the inheritance is said to be sex-linked.

birth - (parturition) Term describing the pysiological process of offspring (child) being born.

bladder exstrophy - (Greek, ekstriphein = "turn inside out") A congenital malformation with bladder open to ventral wall of abdomen (between umbilicus and pubic symphysis) and may have other anomolies associated with failure of closure of abdominal wall and bladder (epispadias, pubic bone anomolies).

Bulbourethral Gland - (= Cowper's Gland) A male genital tract gland which secretes a small amount of a thick clear mucous fluid prior to ejaculation, the alkaline content apparently buffers acidity of the urethra. The equivalent female gland are Bartholin's glands.

caudal - (Latin, caudal = tail) Anatomical term referring to structures that are more towards the tail.

chryptochid testes - A male genital abnormality where the testes remain undescended in the abdominopelvic cavity.

ciliated epithelium - (Latin, cilium = eyelid) An epithelium named on the basis of the cells having surface hair-like appearance of a cilium; singular, cilium. In many tissues, cilia are found as epithelial cell apical surface motile specializations. In the uterine tube epithelium, after ovulation used to move the unfertilized egg, then the fertilized zygote, then blastocyst during the first week of development.

cloacal membrane - Forms the external lower membrane limit (caudal end) of the early gastrointestinal tract (GIT). This membrane is formed during gastrulation by ectoderm and endoderm without a middle (intervening) layer of mesoderm. The membrane breaks down to form the initial "anal opening" of the gastrointestinal tract.

coelom - Term used to describe a space. There are extraembryonic and intraembryonic coeloms that form during vertebrate development. The single intraembryonic coelom will form the 3 major body cavities: pleural, pericardial and peritoneal. (More? [Coelom Development]])

congenital - Already present at birth, often used to describe defects present at birth, congenital defects.

congenital adrenal hyperplasia - (CAH, adrenal virilism) Abnormality of the fetal adrenal cortex, alters cortisol and androgens with different effects dependent upon sex: in females masculization of the external genitalia; in males, disorder often unnoticed until postnatally. In both sexes, accelerated skeletal growth and sexual maturation is seen in late childhood.

corticosteroid - A steroidal hormone produced by the adrenal cortex.

critical period - (critical period of development) The term used to describe a developmental time when exposure to a teratogen can lead to a developmental abnormality, which can be further divided into an early major and later minor developmental abnormality. The defined critical period will differ in timing and length for different systems.

CRL - Acronym for Crown-Rump Length. Used in embryology to accurately stage the early embryo. Used in clinical ultrasound as a measurement between the periods of 7 to 13 weeks as an accurate estimation of the gestational age.

dihydrotestosterone - The hormonally active form of testosterone (male sex hormone) produced by enzyme (5-alpha reductase) conversion. In the male embryo, this can occur in the genital skin which then supports external genital development. In the adult, this conversion occurs in a number of different tissues. A known treatment for prostate cancer include 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.

ectoderm - (Greek, ecto = outside + derma = skin) One of the initial 3 germ cell layers, which will form the nervous system from the neural tube and neural crest and also generates the entire epithelial layer of the skin covering the embryo. (More? Week 3)

embryology - (Greek, en = in + bryein = to be full of) The science of studying embryo development, usually applied to all development before birth (in humans, included both the embryonic and fetal period).

endocrine - (Greek, endon = within) Glands which release hormones into the blood stream. There are many specialized organs and tissues that release hormones into the bloodstream.

endocrine gland - (Greek, endon = within) A gland (organ, tissue) that is specialized for secretion of a hormone into the bloodstream for general circulation.

endoderm - (Greek, endo = inside + derma = skin) One of the initial 3 germ cell layers, formed by the process of gastrulation. The endoderm forms as a cuboidal epithelium and contributes not only to the trilaminar embryo, but also lines the yolk sac. It will form the entire epithelial lining of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), contribute to the accessory organs of GIT and also forms the epithelial lining of the respiratory tract. Note that in the GIT it contributes both epithelium and the associated epithelial glands. In humans, endoderm forms during week 3 of development.

epiblast - (Greek, epi = above, upon) the layer (of the bilaminar embryo) that generates endoderm and mesoderm by migration of cells through the primitive streak. The remaing cells form ectoderm.

epithelium - (Greek, epi = upon + thele = nipple) Cells tightly linked together to form a sheet with little extracellular matrix. Most epithelia (plural) in the body are embryonically derived from ectoderm or endoderm germ layers. Note: not "skin" which is the epithelium and includes the underlying connective tissue layers (mesoderm) and melanocytes (neural crest) forming a complex tissue.

epoophoron - (rete ovarii, broad ligament cyst) A group of epithelial tubules that can be located in the mesosalpinx possibly mesonephric in origin. Occurs when a segment of the mesonephric duct remains in the female, associated with either the ovary and broad ligament. This "male remnant" will appear as a cyst (broad ligament cyst, adnexal papillary cystadenoma of probable mesonephric origin, APMO) with an appearance that differs depending upon the state of differentiation when the original abnormality occurred.

estrogens - Sex hormone found in both male and female. In the female, this hormone is produced by the ovaries and is responsible for development of secondary feminine sex characteristics. Together with progesterone these hormones also regulate changes that occur each menstral cycle. In the male, Leydig cells produce estrogen into the rete testis fluid at variable levels in different species. During male embryonic development exposure to high levels of estrogen can lead to genital abnormalities.

exstrophy - (Greek, ekstriphein = "turn inside out", bladder exstrophy, cloacal exstrophy) Term used to describe developmental abnormalities where the structure has been anatomically inverted. For example, bladder exstrophy, a congenital malformation with bladder open to ventral wall of abdomen (between umbilicus and pubic symphysis) and may have other anomolies associated with failure of closure of abdominal wall and bladder (epispadias, pubic bone anomolies).

exstrophy of the bladder - See bladder exstrophy

extraembryonic membrane - Term used to describe each of the amnion, yolk sac, allantois and chorion membranes. [index/A.htm#amnion Amniotic membrane], ectoderm origin innermost membrane, produces amniotic fluid (reptiles, bird, and mammals are amniotes). [index/A.htm#yolk_sac Yolk sac], endoderm origin, associated with nutrition in reptiles and birds (mammals source of primordial germ cells and blood cells). [index/A.htm#allantois Allantois], endoderm origin, in reptiles and birds acts as a reservoir for wastes and mediates gas exchange; in mammals is associated/incorporated with connecting stalk/placental cord fetal-maternal interface. [index/C.htm#chorion Chorioic membrane], mesoderm origin, outermost layer in reptiles and birds acts in gas exchange; in mammals incorporated into the placenta and its functions.

extraembryonic mesoderm - Cells from the conceptus that contribute to placenta and fetal membranes. Described as "extraembryonic" because it is tissue lying outside the embryonic trilaminar disc (ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm) and "mesoderm", because of the connective tissue cellular organization.

fallopian tube - (see [#uterine_tube uterine tube], uterine horn, oviducts) A pair of tubular structures designed to transport the oocyte (egg) from the ovary to the [U.htm#uterus uterus] body, named after Gabriel Fallopius (1523-1562), an anatomists and physician.

fetal period - (foetal period) In humans, the development week 9 to 36 is the fetal stage (second and third trimester) and during this time organs formed in the embryonic period continue to develop and the fetus grows in size and weight. The first 8 weeks of development is considered the embryonic period and is divided into 23 Carnegie stages based upon developmental milestones. Note when searching an alternate spelling "foetal".

fetus - (foetus) In mammals, term describes the period of development following the embryonic period. In humans, the development week 9 to 36 is the fetal stage (second and third trimester).

fimbriae - (Latin, fimbria = a fringe) The finger-like projections at the ovarian end of uterine tube. At ovulation they sit over the ovary to aid egg movement into the uterine tube.

Finasteride - A chemical used to prevent male pattern baldness and enlargement of prostate glands. An anti-androgen (blocks synthesis of dihydrotestosterone) and therefore a potential endocrine disruptor, exposed pregnant women can impact on male fetus genetial development.

first trimester - Clinical term used to describe and divide human pregnancy period (9 months) into three equal parts of approximately three calendar months. The first trimester corresponds approximately to embryonic development (week 1 to 8) of organogenesis and early fetal. The second and third trimester correspond to the fetal period of growth in size (second trimester) and weight (third trimester), as well as continued differentiation of existing organs and tissues.

follicle - (Latin, folliculus = little bag, dim. of Latin follis) The functional unit within the ovary that includes the developing oocyte (egg) and the surrounding layers of cells that support that oocyte. Some cells within the follicle are released along with the ooctye at ovulation, while other cells are involved with female sex hormone secretion into the maternal bloodstream.

follicle stimulating hormone - (FSH, gonadotropin) Glycoprotein hormone secreted by anterior pituitary and acts on gametogenesis and other systems in both males and females. In females, FSH acts on the ovary to stimulate follicle development. Negative feedback by inhibin from the developing follicle decreases FSH secretion. In males, acts on the testis Sertoli cells to increase androgen-binding protein (ABP) that binds androgens and has a role in spermatogenesis. FSH-deficientcy in females results in infertile (block in folliculogenesis prior to antral follicle formation) and in males does not affect fertility (have small testes but are fertile). FSH protein has a molecular weight 30 kDa and a 3-4 hour half-life in circulation. Gonadotrophins have been used clinically in humans for the treatment of infertility. Other glycoproetin hormones include luteinizing hormone (LH), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and chorionic gonadotropin. (More? Kumar TR, Wang Y, Lu N, Matzuk MM. Follicle stimulating hormone is required for ovarian follicle maturation but not male fertility. Nat Genet. 1997 Feb;15(2):201-4.)

folliculogenesis - The term used to describe the process of follicle development within the ovary. The follicle is the structure developing within the ovary that includes the oocyte (egg) and surrounding support cells.

gametes - (Greek, gamos = marriage) A specialized reproductive cell through which sexually reproducing parents pass chromosomes to their offspring; a sperm or an egg.

gameteogenesis - The production of either the haploid germ cells of spermatazoa (male) or eggs (female).

Gartner's duct - a female developmental abnormality caused by the persistance of the mesonephric duct (normally lost in females) when the ureteric bud fails to separate from the mesonephric duct. Can generate a broad ligament or vaginal cyst. Named after Hermann Treschow Gartner (1785-1827) a Danish surgeon and anatomist.

gene - A DNA sequence that is transcribed as a single unit and encodes a single polypeptide (protein) or a set of closely related polypeptides. There are approximately 20,000-25,000 protein encoding genes in the human genome. In each cell, DNA is found within the nucleus and also within mitochondria.

genitalia - (Latin, genitalia = ) The term used to describe either the external or internal male and female sexual and reproductive organs. (More? [urogen.htm Urogenital Notes])

genital tubercle - A prominence or rounded protuberance extending ventrally at the inferior end of the body of the embryo. It has initially a sexually indifferent external genitalia structure and contributes to either male (glans penis) and female (clitoris) external genitalia.

genome - The collection of all the DNA in an organism.

germ layers - The first three cellular layers (ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm) that will form all tissues of the embryo. In humans, these layers begin to form during week 3 of development. Term should not be confused with germ cells, which are the oocyte and spermatazoa forming cells. Named originally by Robert Remak (1815 - 1865) a German scientist and embryologist.

germinal epithelium - cellular component covering surface of ovary, it is continuous with mesothelium covering mesovarium. Note that it is a historical misnomer, as it is not the actual site of germ cell formation.

GHRH - Arconym for Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone, secreted by the Hypothalamus it is a protein that activates Growth Hormone synthesis and release from the pituitary.

gonad - (Greek, gonos = seed) A gamete-producing (germ cell) organ. A non-sexual term which is used to describe both the female ovary and male testis.

gonadotrophin releasing hormone - (Greek, gonos = seed) (GnRH) Hormone released from hypothalamus that stimulates pituitary gonadotropin synthesis and secretion (luteinizing hormone, LH and follicle stimulating hormone, FSH). The cyclic release of GnRH has been shown to differentially affect gonadotropin release (rapid frequency, more than 1 pulse / hour LH; slower frequencies FSH secretion). (More?Marshall JC, Eagleson CA, McCartney CR. Hypothalamic dysfunction. Mol Cell Endocrinol. 2001 Oct 25;183(1-2):29-32. Review.)

granulosa cell - A specific cell type that proliferates in association with the oocyte within the developing follicles of the ovary. These cells form the follicle stratum granulosa and are also given specific names based upon their position within the follicle. In the antral follicle, [index/M.htm#membrana_granulosa membrana granulosa] sits on the [index/F.htm#follicular_basal_lamina follicular basal lamina] and lines the antrum as a stratified epithelium. The [index/C.htm#cumulus_oophorus cumulus oophorus] isindex/ a column of granulosa cells that attaches the oocyte to the follicle wall. The [C.htm#corona_radiata corona radiata] are the granulosa cells that directly surround the oocyte, and are released along with it at ovulation. Following ovulation the corona radiata provide physical protection to the oocyte and granulosa cells within the ovulating follicle contribute to corpus luteum.

growth hormone - (GH) A peptide hormone, made in the anterior pituitary, that stimulates tissue and skeletal growth.

growth hormone releasing hormone - (GHRH) secreted by the hypothalamus it is a protein that activates Growth Hormone synthesis and release from the pituitary.

hCG - An acronym for the hormone human Chorionic Gonadotrophin.

hernia - A general discription of protrusion of an organ through a weak spot in the surrounding tissue. In normal development, herniated midgut, describes the gastrointestinal tract growth outside the abdominal wall prior to body wall growth. In abnormal development, abnormal protrusion of organs in the diaphragm, abdominal or groin areas (hiatal hernias or inguinal hernias).

herniated - The discription of the process of protrusion of an organ through a weak spot in the surrounding tissue. In normal development, herniated midgut, describes the gastrointestinal tract growth outside the abdominal wall prior to body wall growth. In abnormal development, abnormal protrusion of organs in the diaphragm, abdominal or groin areas (hiatal hernias or inguinal hernias). Occurs normally in the development of the gastrointestinal tract when the midgut is initially herniated at the umbilicus during embryonic development.

hilum - Term used to describe an anatomical depression in an organ where vessels and nerves enter or leave.

hindgut - The last of the three part/division ([F.htm#foregut foregut] - midgut - hindgut) of the early forming gastrointestinal tract. The hindgut forms all the tract from the distral transverse colon to the cloacal membrane and extends into the connecting stalk (placental cord) as the allantois. In addition, a ventral of the hindgut will also form the urinary tract (bladder, urethra) epithelium. (More? [git.htm Gastrointestinal Tract Notes] | [urogenital.htm Urogenital Notes])

hormone - A substance, made and released by cells in a specific organ or structure, that moves throughout the organism and exerts specific effects on specific cells in other organs or structures. (More? [endocrine.htm Endocrine Notes])

human chorionic gonadotrophin - (hCG) Placental hormone initially secreted by cells (syncitiotrophoblasts) from the implanting conceptus during week two, supporting the ovarian corpus luteum, which in turn supports the endometrial lining and therefore maintains pregnancy. Hormone can be detected in maternal blood and urine and is teh basis of many pregnancy tests. Hormone also stimulates the onset of fetal gonadal steroidogenesis, high levels are teratogenic to fetal gonadal tissues.

hyperplasia - An abnormal increase in organ due to cell proliferation.

hypospadia - A male external genital abnormality, which is the most common penis abnormality (1 in 300) resulting from a failure of male urogenital folds to fuse in various regions and are therefore classified by the location of the opening (meatus).

ICSH - acronym for [#interstitial_cell_stimulating_hormone Interstitial Cell Stimulating Hormone] an anterior pituitary hormone.

inferior - Anatomical term meaning below, beneath or lying below, a relative anatomical term.

interstitial cell stimulating hormone - (ICSH, gonadotropin, lutropin, Interstitial Cell Stimulating Hormone, ICSH) Glycoprotein hormone releasd from anterior pituitary hormone that acts on the gonad and has a role in male and female reproduction. In male, stimulates testis interstital cell (Leydig cell) production of testosterone. In female, increase in concentration during the menstrual cycle triggers ovulation (release of the oocyte).

intraembryonic coelom - The "horseshoe-shaped" space (cavity) that forms initially in the third week of development in the lateral plate mesoderm that will eventually form the 3 main body cavities: pericardial, pleural, peritoneal. The intraembryonic coelom communicates transiently with the extraembryonic coelom.

intrauterine - Term means lying within the uterus.

karyotype - (Greek, karyon = kernel or nucleus + typos = stamp) Term used to describe the chromosomal (genetic) makeup (complement) of a cell.

kidney - In humans the metanephros forms the final adult kidney. An excretory organ which also has endocrine functions.

Leydig cells - (interstitial cells) Testis (male gonad) cell which secrete testosterone, beginning in the fetus. These cells are named after Franz von Leydig (1821 - 1908) a German scientist who histologically described these cells.

ligamentum teres - (ligamentum teres uteri, Hunter's ligament) The round ligament of uterus which maintains the ventral uterine position.

lobule - Term used to describe a small lobe. Can be used to describe part of a gland, ear, organ structure.

luteinizing hormone - (LH, gonadotropin, lutropin, Interstitial Cell Stimulating Hormone, ICSH) Glycoprotein hormone releasd from anterior pituitary hormone that acts on the gonad and has a role in male and female reproduction. In female, increase in concentration during the menstrual cycle triggers ovulation (release of the oocyte). In male, stimulates testis interstital cell (Leydig cell) production of testosterone. Gonadotrophins have been used clinically in humans for the treatment of female infertility.

lutenizing hormone - alternative spelling, (LH, gonadotropin) - (LH, gonadotropin, lutropin, Interstitial Cell Stimulating Hormone, ICSH) Glycoprotein hormone releasd from anterior pituitary hormone that acts on the gonad and has a role in male and female reproduction. In female, increase in concentration during the menstrual cycle triggers ovulation (release of the oocyte). In male, stimulates testis interstital cell (Leydig cell) production of testosterone.

luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor - (LHCGR) a G protein-coupled receptor expressed in male testis (Leydig cells) and female ovary (granulosa-lutein and theca cells).

medial - (Latin, medialis = middle) Anatomically towards the midline of the body or structure. The opposite term is lateral.

mesenchyme - Term used to describe the cellular organisation of undifferentiated embryonic connective tissue . Mesenchymal tissue is mainly derived from mesoderm and neural crest, which will form most of the adult connective tissues. This connective tissue organization contrasts with the other main form of cellular organization, epithelial tissue.

mesonephros - The second temporary stage of kidney development (pro-, meso-, meta-). The intermediate mesonephros develops and disappears with the exception of its duct, the mesonephric duct, which will form the male reproductive duct system. In males, the mesonephric tubules go on to form the ducts of the testis. In females, these degenerate. A few mesonephric tubules remain as efferent ductules in the male and vestigial remnants in the female.

mesonephric duct - (Wollfian duct) An early developing urogenital paired duct system that initially runs the length of the embryo, that will differentiate and form the male reproductive duct system (ductus deferens). In females, this duct degenerates occasionally some remnants may remain associated in broad ligament. (More? [genital.htm Genital Notes])

mesovarium - The mesentry of the ovary formed from a fold of the broad ligament that attaches the ovary.

metanephric mesenchyme - Metanephric mesenchyme caudal part of intermediate mesoderm that will develop into nephrons within the kidney. The intermediate mesoderm forms as an unsegmented strip running rostro-caudally between the somite and lateral plate mesoderm. The very caudal (tail) end of this mesoderm strip where the uteric bud forms is the metanephric mesenchyme, which induces the formation of, and surrounds the end of, the ureteric bud.

midgut - The middle of the three part/division ([index/F.htm#foregut foregut] - midgut - [index/H.htm#hindgut hindgut]) of the early forming gastrointestinal tract. The midgut is initially connected on the ventral embryo surface to the external yolk sac by a yolk stalk, a narrow tubular connection. The midgut forms all the tract from beneath the stomach (duodenum, small intestine and large intestine) to the distral transverse colon. The midgut develops as an external loop "herniated" ventrally, until early fetal growth of the body wall recaptures this external loop, which also undergoes a rotation about the superior mesenteric artery to establish the adult anatomical position.

Mullerian Duct - (paramesonephric duct) An embryonic paired duct system that will form the epithelial lining of female reproductive organs: utererine tube, [U.htm#uterus uterus], upper vaginal canal. This duct system degenerate in male gonadal development. Named after Johannes Peter Muller (1801-1858) a German scientist.

Johannes Peter Müllerian - Johannes Peter Muller (1801 - 1858) in 1830 was the first to describe the duct named after him, the "Mullerian duct" also called the paramesonephric duct.

Mullerian Inhibiting Substance - (MIS, Anti-Mullerian Hormone, AMH, Mullerian inhibiting hormone, MIH). A sertoli cell secreted glycoprotein (transforming growth factor-beta, TGF-beta superfamily) that regulates gonadal and genital tract development. The main role is to inhibit paramesonephric (Mullerian) duct development in males. Postnatally, after puberty it is also expressed in females by ovarian granulosa cells and has a role in follicle development. (More? OMIM - AMH)

oviduct - (uterine horn, fallopian tube, oviduct, salpinx) see uterine tube. A pair of tubular structures designed to transport the oocyte (egg) from the ovary to the uterus body.

paramesonephric duct - (Mullerian duct) (Greek, para = "beside") The paired ducts that lie beside the mesonephric ducts, that will differentiate in the female embryo to form the female internal genital tract (uterine tubes, uterus, upper vaginal canal).

parietal pleura - Serous membrane which forms the outer lining of pleural cavity. Mesoderm of the thoracic cavity body wall and derived from epithelia of pericardioperitoneal canals from intraembryonic coelom. The inner pleural layer, visceral pleura, is splanchnic mesoderm in origin.

peritoneal cavity - The anatomical body cavity in which the lower body organs lie: intestines, liver, bladder, uterus, ovary. The peritoneal cavity forms initially from two separate regions of the early intraembryonic coelom (formed in the lateral plate mesoderm), which with embryo folding, fuse to form a single cavity. Note the single intraembryonic coelom forms all three major body cavities: pericardial, pleural, peritoneal.

Pouch of Douglas - (rectouterine pouch or rectovaginal) A female anatomical region describing the portion of the peritoneal cavity lying between the back wall of the uterus and rectum.

preantral follicle - (primary follicle]) Term used to describe the developmental stage of ovarian follicle development following primordial in describing the sequence (primordial, preantral, antral) of follicle development within the ovary. In humans, a number of primordial follicles will begin to develop into preantral follicles (primary), some of which will then form antral follicles (secondary), with only a single antral follicle developing into the ovulating follicle (Graafian) each menstrual cycle.

processus vaginalis - A transient communicating channel in testes development between tunica vaginalis and peritoneal cavity.

progesterone - A steroidal hormone of the progestogens class, which has many roles in the female. Functions include regulation of the menstrual cycle, uterine changes, maintaining pregnancy and effects on systems throughout the body. Biological sources include: adrenal glands, gonads (corpus luteum), brain, and placenta. Male progesterone has a suggested role in neural development. Progesterone is also used clinically as a part of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in women. The human progesterone receptor has two isoforms (PRA and PRB). (More? Menstrual Cycle)

progestins - these compounds are synthetically produced progestogens used clinically and experimentally. (More? Menstrual Cycle)

prolactin - (PRL) anterior pituitary hormone which stimulates breast development and milk production in pregnancy. Also has a role in regulating follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) effect on the ovary. Protein hormone is similar in structure to both growth hormone (anterior pituitary) and chorionic somatomammotropin (placenta). Anterior pituitary release of prolactin is in turn regulated by the hypothalamus [#prolactin-releasing_hormone prolactin-releasing hormone] (PRLH, prolactin-releasing peptide). Recently been shown to to mimic in pregnancy effects of increased maternal myelination processes (oligodendrocyte precursor proliferation). (More? OMIM - PRL)

prolactin-releasing hormone - (PRLH, prolactin-releasing peptide, PRRP) an 87 amino acid peptide hypothalamus hormone which regulates anterior pituitary release of prolactin. (More? OMIM - PRLH)

puberty - (Latin, pubertas = adulthood) process involving maturation of the reproductive system. A complex process, initiated by an unknown mechanism, but involving the brain driving the hormonal axis.

rectouterine pouch - (Pouch of Douglas or rectovaginal) Anatomical description of the female peritoneal cavity lying between the back wall of the [U.htm#uterus uterus] and rectum.

renal - (Latin, renes = kidney) Term used in relation to the kidney and associated structures (renal pelvis, renal artery)

rete ovarii - A group of epithelial tubules located at the hilum of the ovary possibly mesonephric origin.

second trimester - Clinical term used to describe and divide human pregnancy period (9 months) into three equal parts of approximately three calendar months. The first trimester corresponds approximately to embryonic development (week 1 to 8) of organogenesis and early fetal. The second and third trimester correspond to the fetal period of growth in size (second trimester) and weight (third trimester), as well as continued differentiation of existing organs and tissues.

sry - (Sry, human; Testis-Determining Factor, TDF; Testis-Determining Factor on Y, TDY ) Gene name sex-determining region of Y, the gene locus on the Y chromosome encoding the male "testis determining factor", a protein transcription factor and a member of the high mobility group (HMG)-box family of DNA binding proteins. See also the transcription factor SRY-related protein, SOX9 (SRY-related high-mobility group (HMG) box 9) (More? OMIM)

stromal cells - (Greek, stroma = "a cover, table-cloth, bedding") Descriptive term in the ovary, for cells surrounding the developing follicle that form a connective tissue sheath (theca folliculi). This layer then differentiates into 2 layers (theca interna, theca externa). This region is vascularized and involved in hormone secretion.

testis-determining factor - (TDF, Sry, Testis-Determining Factor on Y, TDY ) Protein name for the protein transcription factor product of the Sry gene on the Y chromosome responsible for maleness. This protein is a member of the high mobility group (HMG)-box family of DNA binding proteins. See also the transcription factor SRY-related protein, SOX9 (SRY-related high-mobility group (HMG) box 9) (More? OMIM)

theca externa - (Greek, thek = box) The ovarian follicle stromal cells forming the outer layer of the theca folliculi surrounding the developing follicle within the ovary. Consisting of connective tissue cells, smooth muscle and collagen fibers.

theca interna - (Greek, thek >= box) The ovarian follicle endocrine cells forming the inner layer of the theca folliculi surrounding the developing follicle within the ovary. This vascularized layer of cells respond to leutenizing hormone (LH) synthesizing and secreting androgens (androstendione) transported to glomerulosa cells which process initially into testosterone and then by aromatase into estrogen (estradiol). Theca cells do not begin hormonal functions until puberty.

third trimester - Clinical term used to describe and divide human pregnancy period (9 months) into three equal parts of approximately three calendar months. The third trimester corresponds to the fetal period of growth in weight, as well as continued differentiation of existing organs and tissues. The respiratory system matures late in teh third trimester. The first trimester corresponds approximately to embryonic development (week 1 to 8) of organogenesis and early fetal period, the second trimester is the fetal period of growth in size.

trimegestone - A synthetic progesterone potentially used in postmenopausal women (with an intact [index/U.htm#uterus uterus]) in combination with estrogen as hormone-replacement therapy (HRT). (Other Progestins: levonorgestrel, 3-keto-desogestrel, dienogest, drospirenone, Nestorone and nomegestrol acetate ) Note that Trimegestone and Nestorone are currently the most potent fourth-generation progestins with no androgenic or estrogenic actions.

trimester - Clinical term used to describe and divide human pregnancy period (9 months) into three equal parts of approximately three calendar months. The first trimester corresponds approximately to embryonic development (week 1 to 8) of organogenesis and early fetal. The second and third trimester correspond to the fetal period of growth in size (second trimester) and weight (third trimester), as well as continued differentiation of existing organs and tissues.

tubulogenesis - Term used to describe the development of branched tubes from an initially unbranched epithelial bud. A fundamental process in the development of many organ systems (pancreas, mammary gland, lung, and kidney).

tunica albuginea - A dense connective tissue layer lying between germinal epithelium and cortical region of female ovary, or the equivilaent capsule of the male testis.

ultrasound - A noninvasive technique for visualizing and prenatal diagnosis of several features of development including: follicles in the ovaries, the gestational sac, fetus in the [U.htm#uterus uterus], fetal parameters, and the placenta. Uses high-frequency sound waves that are reflected off internal structures. These reflections can be analysed and displayed by computer.

ureter - The ureters are hollow tubes that link and carry urine from each kidney to the bladder. The tubes have a muscular wall lined with transitional epithelium.

urethra - The single muscular tube that links and carries urine from the bladder to the exterior. In humans, the urethral length differs between the sexes (male longer, female shorter).

urinary - Term used to describe all components of the kidney system including the bladder, ureters and urethra.

urine - Term used to describe the liquid waste produced by the kidney, stored in the bladder and excreted from the body through the urethra.

urorectal septum - (URS) The structure which develops to separate the cloaca (common urogenital sinus) into an anterior urinary part and a posterior rectal part.

URSMS - An acronym for urorectal septum malformation sequence, clinically describing abnormalities of the urorectal septum (URS) and urogenital organs.

urinary bladder - muscular sac for the storage of urine.

uterine horn - (fallopian tube, oviduct, salpinx) see uterine tube.

uterine peristalsis - rhythmic muscular contraction of the [#uterus uterus] which occurs during the menstrual cycle, maximally just before ovulation, in the non-pregnant uterus.

uterine tube - (uterine horn, oviduct, fallopian tube, salpinx) A pair of tubular structures that transport the oocyte (egg) from the ovary to the [#uterus uterus] body. They are located laterally on the upper uterus and consist medial to lateral of three main parts: isthmus (medial constricted third), ampulla (intermediate dilated portion) and infundibulum (containing the abdominal opening/ostium, surrounded by finger-like fimbriæ). The tube has structurally several layers: a lining mucosa (mix of ciliated and secretory epithelium), a middle muscularis layer (inner circular muscle layer and an outer longitudinal layer) and outer serous layer (peritoneal).

uterus - The female internal genital (reproductive) tract forming a hollow muscular walled organ, embryonically derived from the [P.htm#paramesonephric paramesonephric ducts]. The human uterus has two uterine tubes (fallopian tubes, oviducts) where the first week of development occurs and a single hollow body where implantation of the blastocyst normally occurs. Following puberty, the non-pregnant uterus (epithelium and underlying stroma) undergoes cyclic changes under the influence of hormones, the menstrual cycle. This cycle of uterine changes ceases during pregnancy. In other species females of non-primate vertebrates (eg rats, mice, horses, pig) have a reproductive cycle called the estrous cycle (oestrous, British spelling). In pregnancy, the uterus contributes the maternal component of the placenta.

villi - Plural of villus, which is a thin projection from a surface.

vitelline duct - (yolk stalk) Is a narrow endodermal channel between the yolk sac and the developing mid-gut. An abnormality associated with this duct failing to regress is called Meckel's diverticulum.

Wolffian duct - (= mesonephric duct, preferred terminology), A developmental duct that runs from the mesonephros to cloaca. The duct in male differentiates to form the vas deferens and in female regresses. Named after Caspar Friedrich Wolff (1733-1794), a German scientist and early embryology researcher and is said to have established the doctrine of germ layers.

X chromosome - The female sex chromosome, which following sexual reproduction is inherited from each parent in females, and inherited from the mother in males. This inheritence pattern impacts upon the pattern of genetic disease.

Xist - The name for a non-translated RNA (18 Kb) that is associated with the inactivated X chromosome in female cells to correct for the double gene dosage, 2 copies of teh X chromosome.

X inactivation - Process that occurs in all cells within females, each cell has 2 copies of the X chromosome (one from father and one from mother) one of copy of which is randomly inactivated throughout the entire body in order to maintain gene dosage.

X linked - Term used to refer to genes, and genetic diseases, located on the X chromosome. Therefore more likely to be expressed in males, where there is only a single maternal X chromosome.

yolk sac - An [index/E.htm#extraembryonic_membrane extraembryonic membrane]which is endoderm origin and covered with extraembryonic mesoderm. Yolk sac lies outside the embryo connected initially by a yolk stalk to the midgut with which it is continuous with. The endodermal lining is continuous with the endoderm of the gastrointestinal tract. In reptiles and birds, the yolk sac has a function associated with nutrition. In mammals the yolk sac acts as a source of primordial germ cells and blood cells. (More 2010-04-12T17:17:11Search Google