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Female reproductive system cells. Ovary. Periotoneal (outer surface) May also be called the germinal epithelium (does not contain germ cells) Pseudostratified cuboidal to columnar mesothelium Offers protection to the outer surface Ovarian stromal cells (bulk of the ovary)
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Ovary • Periotoneal (outer surface) • May also be called the germinal epithelium (does not contain germ cells) • Pseudostratifiedcuboidal to columnar mesothelium • Offers protection to the outer surface • Ovarian stromal cells (bulk of the ovary) • Spindle-shaped, arranged in a whorled texture • Secretes estrogen
Ovary • Follicles – within the cortex of the ovarian stroma • Each follicle contains an oocyte surrounded by granulosa cells • Oocyte is the egg – discussed in the lecture on gamete cells • Granulosa cells – stratified cuboidal cells • Become the corona radiata around the egg • Process and release estrogen
Fallopian Tubes • The elaborately folded mucosa is lined with ciliated columnar epithelium • Conducts the egg from the ovary to the uterus • Mucus cells provide lubrication for ease of movement • Muscular Layer • For structure and some peristaltic movement
Uterus • Endometrium • Simple columnar epithelium • Stratum Functionalis: superficial layer sloughed off during menstruation; appears untidy (unfinished); • Stratum Basalis: replenishes the stratum functionalis after the excretory phase of menstruation • Myometrium • Multilayers of smooth muscle that are in poorly defined layers • Contracts to expel the endometrium during menses or expel a baby during parturition
Cervix • Between the uterus and vagina • Transitions from simple columnar cells to nonkeratinized stratified squamous • The transition allows for considerable stretching during childbirth • Surrounded by smooth muscular fibers interwoven with elastic fibers • Offers some contractile ability during childbirth
Vagina • Passage from the cervix to the outside of the body • Non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium • These cells accumulate large amounts of glycogen • This causes the cells to appear empty upon staining • Surrounded by smooth muscular fibers interwoven with elastic fibers • Offers some contractile ability during childbirth
Mammary Gland • When inactive, the mammary tissue appears to consists of ducts, which are separated by fibrous connective tissue and adipose cells. • During pregnancy, the ducts extend and the secretory glands enlarge • Each secretory unit is surrounded by myoepithelial cells • Secretory cells resemble mucous cells (except they expel milk – not mucous) • Work to excrete the milk during lactation • Bands of smooth muscle cells found in the subcutaneous tissue – especially around the nipple
Mammary Gland Inactive Active