Question

Describe briefly the internal structure of a mammalian ovary.

Answer 1

1. Ovary Structure: The mammalian ovary is an oval or almond-shaped organ.
2. Covering: It is covered externally by a single layer of cuboidal epithelium called the germinal epithelium.
3. Tunica Albuginea: Beneath the germinal epithelium lies a dense connective tissue layer called the tunica albuginea.
4. Cortex: Below the tunica albuginea is the cortex, which contains numerous ovarian follicles in different stages of development.
5. Ovarian Follicles: Each follicle contains an oocyte surrounded by follicular cells or granulosa cells.
6. Medulla: The central part of the ovary is called the medulla, which consists of loose connective tissue, blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves.
7. Corpus Luteum and Corpus Albicans: After ovulation, the ruptured follicle forms the corpus luteum (secretes progesterone). If pregnancy does not occur, it degenerates into corpus albicans (scar tissue).

This internal structure supports the ovary’s function in oogenesis and hormone production