Ovarian follicular dynamics in cattle: a comprehensive review

  • Pururava Sharma Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary Polyclinic Nahan, Himachal Pradesh, India
  • Pravesh Kumar Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, DGCN COVAS, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
  • Akshay Sharma Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, DGCN COVAS, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
  • Dawa Yangka Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, Royal Government of Bhutan, Trongsa, Bhutan
  • Amit Sharma Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, DGCN COVAS, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
  • Pankaj Sood Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, DGCN COVAS, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
DOI: https://doi.org/10.58292/CT.v18.12843
Keywords: Ovarian follicles, ovary, recruitment, selection, dominance, ovulation

Abstract

Ovarian follicular dynamics in cows is characterized by well-coordinated development and maturation of ovarian follicles. In the bovine ovary, follicles advance from primordial stages (present at birth), to primary, secondary, and tertiary stages. During puberty, there is a marked increase in pulsatile secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus; this stimulates the anterior pituitary to release follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, promoting follicle growth and selection with some dominant follicles ovulating. Estradiol 17-β from these developing follicles regulates the reproductive cycle, promoting estrus and cyclicity. Understanding these dynamics is vital for optimizing reproductive management and enhancing fertility. This review describes ovarian follicular dynamics and puberty in cattle.

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Published
2026-01-20
How to Cite
Sharma , P., Kumar , P., Sharma , A., Yangka , D., Sharma , A., & Sood , P. (2026). Ovarian follicular dynamics in cattle: a comprehensive review. Clinical Theriogenology, 18. https://doi.org/10.58292/CT.v18.12843
Issue
Vol. 18 (2026): Issue in progress
Section
Review Reports
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