Development of estimation method for mammalian oocyte quality based on molecular mechanism of follicular selection

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Many primordial follicles are present in the mammalian ovary. Less than 1% develop and ovulate, and the remainders are eliminated via atresia. The endocrinological mechanisms involved in follicular development have been characterized, but the precise mechanisms involved in the regulation of follicule selection remain unknown. Recent studies suggest that apoptosis in granulosa cells plays a crucial role in follicular selection. Notably, death ligand and receptor system and intracellular signaling are the key mechanisms regulating granulosa cell apoptosis. In this study, the mechanisms of granulosa cell apoptosis regulated by death ligand and receptor system and signaling, and the roles of apoptosis inhibitory factors (cellular FLICE-like inhibitory protein : cFLIP and X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein : XIAP) were revealed. The inhibitors are useful to assess damaged and/or healthy oocytes.