The role of the oocyte in folliculogenesis

Novel regulatory proteins have been identified within oocytes that are cruc ially involved in folliculogenesis. One of the most exciting oocyte signali ng molecules is a novel member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF- beta) superfamily, growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF-9). Loss-of-functio n studies have established that GDF-9 is obligatory for proper folliculogen esis and fertility in female mice. The current challenges are to understand how oocyte morphogens regulate folliculogenesis and how their actions and interactions are integrated into the overall processes of physiology and pa thophysiology. Who would have thought that oocyte morphogens would be so cr ucial for reproduction?.