Abstract: The development of ovarian follicle is a complicated process invoved in a variety of cells and multiple stages. Granulosa cell and oocyte are important cells of ovarian follicle. Folliculogenesis requires a carefully orchestrated cross talk between the oocyte and granulosa cells. With the adaption of gonadotropin and other hormones or signal molecules, granulosa cells proliferated, differentiated, exchange material and signal molecular with surrounding granulosa cells, oocytes as well as theca cells through the gap junction. Meanwhile, oocytes can also secrete factors to retract granulosa cells. The interaction between granulosa cells and oocyte involves multiple signaling pathways, which determine the follicle maturation or atresia. Cytokines generation and transmission are changed by some of the over-activated or inhibited signal pathways, which could induce apoptosis. However, the specific mechanism was unclear. This review discussed the follicular formation, the interaction between oocyte and granulosa cells and theca cells during development, as well as signaling pathways.

Key words: Granulosa cells, Oocytes, Ovarian follicle, Signal transduction, Apoptosis