Abstract: Growth differentiation factor-9 is an important oocyte-derived growth factor. It plays an
important role in the process of promoting oocyte growth and differentiation，granulose cell proliferation，
cumulus expansion and inhibitting granulose cell and follicular membrane cell differentiation. Premature
ovarian failure is a complex disease that has no clear pathogenesis and effective treatment methods. Present
studies show that the reduction of follicular number，the acceleration of follicular depletion and the insensitive
to the follicular stimulating hormone are the primary causes of the premature ovarian failure. Growth
differentiation factor-9 participates in these processes.

Key words: Growth differentiation factor-9, Follicular development, Premature ovarian failure