HTC101 - Female Reproductive System

Ovary

Structure in female reproductive system that produces eggs and sex hormones

Primordial follicles

Resembles a simple, singular cell. Mitotically active, dividing to increase in numbers. Clustered near outer edge of developing ovarian cortex

Primary follicles

Larger than oogonia, clearly visible nucleus and nucleolus. These cells begin meiosis I but are arrested in prophase I until puberty

Secondary follicles

Significantly larger than previous stage, having completed first meiotic division. Still surrounded by layer of cumulus cells, part of corona radiata that aids in attachment and nutrition until fertilization

Graafian (mature) follicles

Even larger than previous stage, with a fluid-filled sac with a distinct theca and granulosa cell layers for supporting oocyte and producing necessary hormones like estrogen

Corpus luteum

Temporary endocrine gland formed from leftover already-ruptured follicle

Fallopian tube

Serves as passageway for oocyte to travel from ovary to uterine cavity and primary site for fertilization

Infundibulum

Funnel-shaped segment of fallopian tube near ovary, featuring fimbriae, the finger-like projections that help capture the ovulated oocyte

Ampulla

Longest segment of the fallopian tube, where fertilization typically occurs

Isthmus

Narrower section of fallopian tube closer to the uterus, connecting ampulla to uterine sections

Intramural/interstitial part

Segment of fallopian tube embedded within wall of uterus, opens into uterine cavity through uterotubal junction

Uterus

Organ in female reproductive system that serves as a place for a baby to grow

Perimetrium of uterus

Outermost layer of uterus, made of serous membrane, serves as protective layer and supports uterus within pelvic cavity

Myometrium of uterus

Thick middle layer of uterus, smooth muscle interlaced with connective tissue that contracts during childbirth to expel baby and during menstruation to expel endometrial lining

Functional endometrium of uterus

Innermost layer of endometrium that supports implanted embryo but sheds during menstruation

Basal endometrium of uterus

Inner layer of uterus that regenerates the functional layer

Upper cervix (endocervix)

Lined by simple columnar epithelium containing mucous-secreting cells

Lower cervix (ectocervix)

Lined by non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium to protect from damage

Breast

Glandular and fatty tissue for milk production

Breast lobes

Each breast has 15-20, composed of glandular tissue, contains smaller lobules

Estrogen and Progesterone Receptors (ER and PR)

IHC markers that determine hormone receptor status and are important for breast cancer therapy decisions

HER2/neu (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2)

IHC marker whose overexpression is seen in ~20% of breast cancers, has implications for therapy with drugs that target this protein