Spatial and temporal changes in follicle distribution in the human ovarian cortex

AbstractResearch question How does follicle distribution evolve in the human ovarian cortex between ages of 20 and 35 years? Design Fragments from women undergoing unilateral oophorectomy for fertility preservation were obtained quantitative histological assessment, including recording two-dimensional coordinates follicles. Data analysed using spatial statistical methods. Results A total 53 tissue samples, containing 1–803 follicles each, 14 aged 20–35 years. Primordial transitory lay a clustered manner cortex, with an average cluster radius around 270 µm (95% confidence interval 154–377 µm; n = 49). Follicle density declined age (P 0.006, 13), distance nearest neighbouring increased 0.004, 13). Cluster decreased 0.02, but degree clustering tended to increase 0.11, In majority at different stages clusters < 0.05, Conclusions This study shows that primordial lie cortex. Spatio-temporal computer simulation suggests interfollicular signals may hinder loss therefore drive distribution. clinical practice, woman's should be taken into account when assessing density, as is increasingly advancing age.