interstitial cell of ovary 2010-08-23T11:11:34Z Interstitial cells of the ovary are a vital component of the ovarian tissue. They reside within the ovarian cortex, dispersed among the connective tissue surrounding the ovarian follicles. Despite not being directly associated with the follicles themselves, interstitial cells play a significant role in ovarian function, hormone production, and follicle viability. These cells are primarily responsible for the synthesis and secretion of androgens. Androgens are a class of hormones that are crucial for various physiological processes, including the development of secondary sexual characteristics, regulation of the menstrual cycle, and support of reproductive function. In addition to their role in androgen production, interstitial cells also contribute to the overall hormonal milieu within the ovary. They interact with other cell types, such as theca cells and granulosa cells, to coordinate hormone production and follicular development. This intricate interplay of different cell types is essential for the proper functioning of the ovary and the regulation of ovarian cycles. Furthermore, interstitial cells are subject to hormonal regulation themselves. Various hormones, such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) released by the pituitary gland, influence the activity of interstitial cells and modulate androgen production accordingly. This hormonal regulation ensures the finely tuned balance necessary for reproductive processes. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) FMA:18709 https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_0002094 A cell that makes up the loose connective tissue of the ovary. stromal cell of ovary