Role of androgenic steroid and inhibin in control of follicular development and ovulation

Abstract

The granulosa and theca cells in developing follicles respond to endocrine stimulation of FSH and LH by producing steroid and nonsteroid regulatory factors. In turn, these regulatory factors affect paracrine and autocrine control of cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration in the maturing follicle. Androgenic steroid and inhibin produced by the theca and granulose cells, respectively play important roles in modifying cellular responses of FSH and LH which are crucial for follicular development and ovulation.